William Matthew Prior American Folk Art Landscape Paintings

Introduce a touch of American folk art to your interior decoration by purchasing this delightful pair of American folk art landscape paintings. Dated 1823 and signed M. Prior, these captivating landscape artworks are attributed to the renowned Bath, Maine artist William Matthew Prior (1806-1873). Each of these oil on board landscapes features vivid and picturesque scenery, reflecting a style consistent with the few known landscape paintings by Prior. While he is predominantly recognized for his portraits, Prior’s landscape works display the same lively, dynamic, and colorful attributes seen in his celebrated depictions of children and women.

These paintings, created in 1823, mark the beginning of Prior’s artistic journey at the age of 17. Although authentication for such pieces is not always definitive, the artworks are attributed to Mr. Prior based on the artist’s signature found on the back of one panel, as shown in the image. The other panel is unsigned and undated, while the signed panel bears the date of 1823. The paintings exhibit characteristics that align with the inscribed date and are consistent with other examples of Mr. Prior’s signatures, indicating their 19th-century origin. These vibrant and enchanting paintings serve as excellent examples of early American folk art and make a perfect addition to any American folk art collection. They are ideal for those seeking authentic folk art to enhance their farmhouse, country house, or cottage-style interiors. These artworks were procured from a New England collection dedicated to American folk art.

The frames measure 6.5 inches by 7.5 inches, the frames.

The frames display elements of heavy oxidation and chippings to the painted surface and separation of the joints, with some moderate contemporary stabilization; the paintings display oxidation to the varnish, surface abrasions, and staining to the varnished surface with chippings and general wear.