Overview
A small, decorative wooden wall plaque featuring a textured lithographic print of Robert E. Lee in his pre-Civil War United States Army uniform.
Preliminary identification
Robert E. Lee 'U.S. Army' Decoupage Wood Plaque, c. 1960s
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Story
Before he was the commander of the Confederate forces, Robert E. Lee was a celebrated officer in the United States Army for over 30 years. This portrait captures him in that earlier, perhaps less-remembered chapter, wearing the gold epaulettes and…
Maker / Origin
While unsigned, this style of wood-block decoupage was popularized by companies like Yorkraft and various giftware manufacturers in the 1950s and 60s.
Condition & Value
The plaque appears to be in good vintage condition. There is some minor wear to the edges of the wood and the expected 'crazing' or fine cracking in the protective lacquer surface, which actually adds to its intended 'antique' look. The hanging hardware is intact.
Full Research
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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Market Analysis
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
SOLD
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
SOLD
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
SOLD
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
SOLD
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375
SOLD