Mid-Century Commercial Print / Decorative Wall Art
The item is a mass-produced decorative wall art piece, likely a lithographic print or reproduction, mounted on a support or backing board for framing. • Attributed to an anonymous commercial artist or designer working for Crest Art Products, Chicago.
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern / Commercial Decorative Art.
Medium & Technique
Mechanical offset lithography or commercial printing on paper, produced for the mass decorative market by Crest Art Products.
Creation Period
Circa 1960s – 1970s. The zip code '60608' on the label suggests a date post-1963.
Dimensions & Format
Estimated to be roughly 10 x 12 inches based on the scale of the label on the backing; format is consistent with standard portrait or landscape wall decor.
Subject Description
While only the backing label is fully visible, the manufacturer's name ('Crest Art Products: Manufacturers of Fine Wall Decor') indicates this was a decorative accessory produced for home interiors. These pieces typically featured landscapes, still lifes, or abstract motifs popular in the mid-20th century.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good. The backing paper and label are intact but show signs of handling, discoloration (foxing/yellowing), and small tears consistent with age.
Estimated Market Value
$20 – $50
Auction Estimate
$10 – $30
Provenance History
Former inventory of Crest Art Products, Chicago, IL. Likely purchased through a general furniture or department store in the mid-to-late 20th century.
Art Historical Significance
Low. This is a commercial decorative product rather than a fine art piece. Its significance lies in the history of American mid-century home interior design and mass-market manufacturing in Chicago.
Notable Features
Manufacturer label for 'Crest Art Products, Manufacturers of Fine Wall Decor, Chicago, Illinois 60608' with hand-written inventory numbers 'P176' and 'V2448-696'.
Condition Issues
Yellowing of the paper backing, acidic adhesive migrate, and minor tearing on the edges of the dust cover.
Conservation Recommendations
Keep in a dry, temperature-controlled environment. If the artwork itself is desired for display, consider re-mounting with acid-free materials.