Here we have an amazing folk art wood sculpture of a Inuit man smoking a pipe and woman resting, which was part of the estate collection of legendary 1930s radio personality Tony Wons. This wooden scene depicts something that will grab you and not let go. So detailed, deep and fantastic. I love the look on the gents face as he takes some puffs. The folk art execution is incredible.
The rare folk art sculpture comes out of the family's estate in Wisconsin. The artwork isn't signed but it's possible Tony Wons created it. The piece was likely created in the late 1940s or early 50s.
Here's more background about the infamous radio host turned folk artist, courtesy of the Old Time Radio website: https://www.otrcat.com/p/tony-wons-scrapbook
Tony Wons was a popular personality during the depression receiving 2,000 fan letters a week. Anthony "Tony" Wons was also known as "scrapbookman" as he collected works of writing from Shelley, Whitman, and other great writers. He also took suggestions from the fans of his show. Tony Wons Scrapbook is a conversational show and he is like an old friend who stops by for a chat. He often asked the listening audience "Are you listening?"
Here are a couple other websites about him.
Here are a couple other websites about him, here and here. He actually carved violins for music students after he moved back to Wisconsin! I mean, C'mon.
The relief sculpture stands 5 1/2" tall, 7 1/2" wide and 1" deep. There is perfect surface patina throughout the piece. The artwork is very solid and awesome. Please see all pics as they are part of the description.
I ship FedEx to street addresses only (no PO Boxes). Free shipping on the rare folk art sculpture.
Smoke'em if you got'em. A very cool scene.
