Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A pair of square, hand-painted wooden earrings featuring vibrant primary colors and geometric motifs. These pieces represent the intersection of 1980s bold fashion and the 'wearable art' movement that championed natural materials and hand-applied decoration.
Story
The 1980s saw a massive shift away from delicate gold toward 'statement' jewelry made of wood and clay. These earrings were likely sold at a local craft fair or boutique, celebrating the era's love for Memphis Group-inspired geometry.
Maker / Origin
While the specific artist is unknown, these are characteristic of the independent 'studio jewelry' movement. During this time, artisans moved away from precious metals to explore color and form, often selling their work at regional arts festivals like the Rhinebeck Crafts Fair.
Condition & Value
The paint shows minor scuffing and edge wear consistent with age. The wood appears stable without warping, though the slight loss of pigment on the red square reduces the value slightly. Values for unsigned 1980s wooden folk art jewelry are modest but steady, driven by the current 'vintage kitsch' and 'maximalist' fashion trends.
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.