Early 19th-Century Decorative Sicilian Antique Folk Art Carved Wood Panel / Cart Key In Original Paint

An early 19th-century Sicilian antique carved wood panel.

Formerly a decorative panel to a cart / "carretto". These panels were known as "cart keys". These carts were pulled by donkeys of horses and used throughout Sicily for the transportation of goods predominantly through the 19thC and into the early part of the 20thC. 

The skilled craftsmen that built carretti (carts) included woodcarvers, metal workers, and painters. The woodcarvers carved the many panels that were often historic reliefs. The metal workers worked the iron, in a 'ferro battuto' style, which included highly decorated metal undercarriages.

The Sicilian Carretto is made in several provinces in Sicily each with their own style. Carretti made in the province of Palermo have more of a square box design, those made in Catania are made with more elaborate 'keys', and then there are the carts made in Agrigento which have their own distinctive style.

The craft of making the carts is handed down from generation to generation, through the training of apprentices. Carts are known for being covered in carvings and brightly painted scenes from Sicilian history and folklore as well as intricate geometrical designs. These scenes also served the purpose of conveying historical information to those who were illiterate. The colors of Sicily's flag, yellow and red, feature prominently on the carts, along with details in bright blues and greens. The animals pulling the carts are often elaborately adorned as well.

Our example retains its original paint and depicts winged angels at each end and between, a boat-shaped panel with a tower, trees and foliage and figures, one which has been beheaded!

This panel displays very well and would bo doubt make a wonderful addition to any folk art collection.

Provenance - Acquired directly by us from an Italian-based collection. 

Condition - Some surface wear commensurate with age. Please refer to the images. A further detailed condition report is available upon request.

Size - Width 82 cm (32 1/3")