Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
This charming oval crewelwork piece depicts the iconic 'Apple Tree Girl,' a motif made world-famous by Goebel porcelain figurines. It features raised wool embroidery on a linen ground, capturing the innocent, pastoral aesthetic that defined mid-century home decor.
Story
Berta Hummel’s sketches of rosy-cheeked children became a global phenomenon after WWII. This embroidery represents the 'DIY' craze of the 1970s, where families recreated these symbols of peace and childhood in their own homes.
Maker / Origin
While the original art was created by Sister Maria Innocentia Hummel, this specific piece was likely produced from a Paragon or Erica Wilson needlepoint kit. These kits allowed home makers to bring professional-grade textile art into their living rooms during the great American craft revival.
Condition & Value
The embroidery appears well-preserved with minimal fading. The frame shows some light scuffing consistent with age. Staining on the linen ground would significantly reduce value, but this example looks clean. The frame's wear reduces value by about 15%.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
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.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.