RARE SHENANDOAH VALLEY OF VIRGINIA FOLK ART FRAKTUR REWARD OF MERIT DRAWING, watercolor and ink on paper, classic design featuring a large profile of a polychrome distelfink/bird flanked by two stylized floral devices, all within a distinctive ruled border. Archivally mounted in a custom paint-decorated frame. Attributed to the Stony Creek Artist (Shenandoah Co., VA, active 1796 - 1823). Circa 1810. 3 1/4" x 4" object, 6 7/8" x 7 1/2" OA.
Provenance: From an important Washington, DC private collection.
Laughlin Auctions, Edinburg, VA, 1/2017.
Catalogue Note: The present lot's attribution to the Stony Creek Artist is based on the distinctive ruled border and four-petal star flower in the right hand corner, both of which are features repeated on numerous fraktur associated with this hand. Shenandoah Valley of Virginia fraktur reward of merit drawings are extremely rare - this example being only one of two known by this particular artist. For a discussion and proposed identity of the elusive Stony Creek Artist, see Wust/Martin - Virginia Fraktur (2011 expanded edition), pp. 4-6 and 21-23.

Very good overall condition with minor toning and discoloration. Some professional conservation, including cleaning and one small area of restoration to lower edge.