American Weathervanes: The Art of the Winds

American weathervanes have a long history, dating back to Colonial days. Shem Drowne of Boston crafted the iconic golden grasshopper that tops Faneuil Hall since 1743. Today, they are a well-established part of American folk art and are celebrated in American Weathervanes.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 02 March 2021
Publisher: Rizzoli International Publications

Since Colonial times, this significant American art form has been an integral part of the landscape. Shem Drowne of Boston, the first documented vane maker in America, created the famous golden grasshopper that has graced the top of Boston's Faneuil Hall since 1743. Farmers crafted roosters, cows, and horses for their barns. As the tradition and public demand grew, so did the diversity of forms. Today, weathervanes hold a well-established place in the canon of American folk art. American Weathervanes celebrates this artistry and is the most up-to-date and authoritative work on this subject.

The history of American weathervanes dates back to the Colonial era, when the first documented vane maker, Shem Drowne of Boston, crafted the iconic golden grasshopper that has adorned the top of Boston's Faneuil Hall since 1743. Initially, weathervanes were primarily used by farmers to adorn their barns with roosters, cows, and horses. However, as the tradition and public demand for weathervanes grew, so did the diversity of their forms. Today, weathervanes are considered a well-established part of American folk art, with a rich history and a wide range of styles and designs.

One of the most notable features of American weathervanes is their craftsmanship. Vane makers were skilled artisans who worked with a variety of materials, including copper, brass, and iron, to create intricate designs and patterns. These designs often featured animals, such as birds, horses, and insects, as well as geometric shapes and symbols. Weathervanes were also often decorated with colorful paint and enamel, adding to their visual appeal.

Over the years, weathervanes have evolved to reflect changing cultural and artistic trends. In the 18th and 19th centuries, for example, they were often used to convey messages and symbols related to agriculture and industry. During the Victorian era, they became more decorative and ornate, with elaborate designs and intricate details. In the 20th century, weathervanes continued to evolve, with modern materials and techniques being used to create new and innovative designs.

Today, American weathervanes are celebrated for their artistic value and historical significance. They are found in a wide range of locations, including homes, businesses, and public spaces, and are often used as a symbol of local pride and heritage. Many museums and art galleries feature collections of weathervanes, and there are also numerous books and publications dedicated to the study and appreciation of this art form.

In conclusion, American weathervanes are a testament to the rich and diverse history of this country. From their humble beginnings as functional tools to their current status as a celebrated art form, weathervanes have played an important role
role in American culture and society for centuries. Whether used as a decorative accent or a symbol of local pride, weathervanes continue to inspire and captivate people around the world.

Weight: 1878g
Dimension: 288 x 287 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780847863907