Mid-Century Diminutive Reverse Painted Glass Equestrian Portrait, Modernist Folk Art

Details

Description

A striking mid-century reverse-painted glass portrait of a white horse, executed in an expressive folk art style and presented in … Read more A striking mid-century reverse-painted glass portrait of a white horse, executed in an expressive folk art style and presented in a simple black frame with a gilt liner. The unexpected coral-peach background and boldly cropped composition give this piece a distinctly modern sensibility despite its traditional equestrian subject.

Unlike conventional paintings on canvas or board, this artwork was reverse painted on glass—a technique in which the image is painted onto the reverse side of the glass and viewed through the front. Areas of age-related paint loss reveal the glass beneath, lending authenticity and character that collectors appreciate in vintage reverse-painted works.

The composition is particularly compelling. Rather than depicting a full equestrian scene, the artist focuses on the quiet dignity of the horse’s head and shoulders, accented by rich oxblood-colored tack that contrasts beautifully against the warm salmon background. The result is decorative, graphic, and highly memorable.

This piece bridges several aesthetics equally well—Modernist, Folk Art, Equestrian, Ranch, English Country, and California Eclectic interiors.

The original paper backing from John Green’s Artist Shop suggests the framing dates to approximately the late 1950s through the 1960s, supporting a mid-century attribution.

Whether displayed in a library, study, ranch home, or layered gallery wall, this unusual reverse-painted glass artwork makes an engaging conversation piece.

Dimensions

* Height: 7.5 in.
* Width: 9.75 in.
* Depth: Approximately 0.75 in.

Condition

Good vintage condition consistent with age.

Reverse-painted glass naturally exhibits scattered areas of paint loss, all visible in the photographs and consistent with the medium. A small imperfection above the saddle appears to be beneath the glass rather than surface damage. The black frame shows light age-appropriate wear. Overall, the artwork presents beautifully and retains excellent decorative appeal.

Style

* Mid-Century Modern
* Folk Art
* Modernist
* Equestrian

Materials

* Reverse-painted glass
* Wood frame See less