Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
A charming high-relief wall plaque titled 'A Friendly Call,' depicting two women in colonial-style dress conversing by a hearth. It is crafted from 'Syroco Wood,' a signature composite of wood flour and resins molded to mimic hand-carved timber.
Story
During the 1940s, American homes embraced 'Colonial Revival' decor to find comfort in a romanticized past. This scene captures a quiet moment of connection, complete with a sleeping cat and a spinning wheel. It turned a simple wall into a window to a cozy, bygone era.
Maker / Origin
Founded in 1890 by Adolph Holstein, Syroco revolutionized home decor by perfecting a molding process that made the look of expensive European wood carvings affordable for the average American family. Their pieces became staples of mid-century gift shops and department stores.
Condition & Value
The front shows some paint loss and surface grime, while the back has a significant chip in the upper corner and a makeshift wire hanger. These signs of age and the damage to the reverse reduce the value by about 50% compared to a mint specimen. Syroco collectors value specific scenes and original finishes.
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.