American Gothic
Original: Oil painting on beaverboard. This image: A printed jigsaw puzzle reproduction. • Grant Wood (American, 1891–1942).
Style & Movement
Regionalism (an American realist modern art movement).
Medium & Technique
The original uses oil paint with hard-edged precision; this reproduction uses offset lithography on die-cut cardboard.
Creation Period
Original created in 1930; this puzzle piece is modern (circa 21st century).
Dimensions & Format
Original: 78 cm × 65.3 cm (30.75 in × 25.75 in). This reproduction: Part of a multi-image portrait layout, approx. 12 x 10 cm within the puzzle.
Subject Description
A farmer standing beside his daughter (often mistaken for his wife) in front of a Carpenter Gothic-style house. The farmer holds a pitchfork, symbolizing hard labor, while the woman wears a colonial print apron. The composition explores steadfastness and rural American values during the Great Depression.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good (as a toy/decoration). The puzzle shows some minor edge wear and visible seams where pieces interconnect.
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $30.00 USD (for the complete puzzle set).
Auction Estimate
Negligible for a mass-produced reproduction.
Provenance History
Original is held by the Art Institute of Chicago; this puzzle item was likely purchased in a retail or museum gift shop context.
Art Historical Significance
One of the most recognizable icons of 20th-century American art, it served as a defining image of the Midwest and has been parodied extensively in popular culture.
Notable Features
Features the signature 'GRANT WOOD 1930' visible at the bottom right of the inset image. It is presented in a collage format alongside other famous works like Van Gogh's 'Starry Night'.
Condition Issues
Die-cut lines fragment the image; potential for missing pieces or cardboard delamination over time.
Conservation Recommendations
Store in a dry, room-temperature environment; use puzzle glue if the intention is to frame the completed assembly.