Preliminary identification

Decoupage Wooden Plaque with John James Audubon 'Ruffed Grouse' Print

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

This is a vintage decorative wooden plaque featuring a decoupage reproduction of John James Audubon's famous 'Ruffed Grouse' (Bonasa umbellus) illustration, originally from his seminal 19th-century folio 'The Birds of America'.

Story

During the mid-20th century, a massive revival of interest in early American naturalism swept through suburban homes. This plaque brought Audubon's masterwork out of elite libraries and directly onto the walls of cozy, wood-paneled family dens.

Maker / Origin

While the original illustration was painted by legendary naturalist John James Audubon in the 1820s, this plaque is a commercial decorative piece from the mid-20th century. Companies like Yorkraft, Syroco, and various regional craft workshops specialized in mounting historic prints onto wood to satisfy the era's hunger for colonial and rustic aesthetics.

Condition & Value

The plaque appears to be in good vintage condition with some light surface scuffs and minor wear along the rustic edges. The amber varnish has darkened slightly over time, which actually enhances its warm, antique look. There is some sticker residue on the right side that should be carefully cleaned to avoid damaging the lacquer.

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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 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.