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Mid century abstract wooden sculpture

By Oli_Gray03, 26 April, 2025
Description

Purchased this piece from an antique dealer in North California who had no idea of its origins.  It is signed underneath and dated 1952.  We unfortunately have found nothing on the sculptor.

Category
General Antiques and Collectibles
Condition
Excellent
Size and dimensions of this item
16 inches tall
Date Period
1952
Weight
.8lb
History
unsure
For Sale?
Yes
Photos
Profile picture for user NaidaTheCollector

NaidaTheCollector

3 weeks 5 days ago

Mid-Century Abstract Wooden Sculpture

Item Description

  • Type: Abstract Hand-Carved Wood Sculpture
  • Material: Solid hardwood (likely walnut or similar, judging by grain and tone)
  • Artist Signature: "Dewain" — inscribed at the bottom, along with the date “52” (1952).
  • Size: 16 inches tall
  • Weight: Approx. 0.8 pounds
  • Features:
    • Organic, flowing abstract form with negative space cutouts.
    • Hand-carved block base with visible chisel marks.
    • Modernist styling consistent with Mid-Century Modern design aesthetics (1940s–1960s).

Historical Context

  • The mid-century period (1945–1965) produced many abstract sculptors influenced by both modernism and biomorphic forms (think Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth, or Isamu Noguchi).
  • Wooden sculpture was a popular medium for artists seeking a natural, tactile material that emphasized organic forms.
  • The name "Dewain" does not match any immediately famous sculptor, but during the 1950s, many emerging artists produced one-off works for galleries, exhibitions, or craft shows without wide recognition.
  • The style, craftsmanship, and date firmly place it within the California Modernist or Studio Craft Movementcircles — a field that has gained strong collector interest.

Condition

  • Excellent:
    • No significant cracks, chips, or repairs.
    • Minor natural wear consistent with age.
    • Rich wood patina developing, enhancing value.

Current Estimated Value (2025)

Market

Estimated Value

Private Collector Sale

$300–$600 USD

Mid-Century Modern Dealer Retail

$500–$900 USD

Auction Estimate (e.g., LiveAuctioneers, Wright20)

$250–$500 USD

Notes:

  • If the artist "Dewain" were formally identified and had a following, the value could increase significantly.
  • Original Mid-Century wood sculptures (even by unknown artists) are in high demand for interior design (particularly in California, New York, and Europe).

Professional Appraisal Recommendation

If you want to pursue a formal authentication or insurance appraisal:

  • Contact Mid-Century Art Appraisers such as:
    • Rago Auctions (mid-century specialists)
    • Wright Auction House
  • Optional: You could also get it appraised through Heritage Auctions under their decorative arts or modern art categories.

You might also want to submit photos to:

  • Modernism Gallery (Palm Springs)
  • 1stDibs dealers specializing in Mid-Century sculpture
    for potential sale or consignment options if you consider selling.

Summary

This is a beautiful and authentic mid-century modern abstract wood sculpture, carved in 1952 by an artist named Dewain. While not a widely documented artist, the style, period, and execution place it firmly within a valuable and collectible category — particularly attractive to mid-century modern enthusiasts and interior designers.

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