One of my favorite Brimfield finds, this really delights me, including for being quite unusual as far as I've ever seen, part watercolor and part paper cut. And what better way to represent the lattice-like skin of a pineapple than this??! In this country the pineapple, accessible only via import from the Caribbean, became a symbol of wealth and hospitality during colonial times--apparently, wealthy colonists and plantation owners would rent pineapples just to display them as centerpieces during lavish dinner parties, with the serving of a pineapple the ultimate demonstration of generosity and social standing. Certainly this piece conveys a sense of the pineapple as an exotic marvel, but the folk execution makes it feel all about warmth and hospitality. I would hang it in the dining room right above the head of the head of the table!
Framed 10 3/8" x 7 7/8". Good antique condition, framed as found (under grass, all original to it I believe), the frame itself not quite square, which just adds to the charm. C. mid 19th century, maybe a little earlier.
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