An old artist’s tabletop easel made by the Wolsey Co. of El Monte, California, believed to date to the mid-to-late twentieth century.
Its broad triangular frame has a deep brown finish, a wooden ledge for supporting paintings and drawings, and a folding rear support. The original red and black manufacturer’s label remains fixed near the top, a small but important detail of its history.
I have always appreciated the ordinary objects that once belonged to an artist’s working life. The wooden easels, worn brushes, paint boxes, and other instruments that spent their years in studios, holding the work of hands and imagination. There is something rather moving about finding these things long after the paintings they helped create have gone elsewhere.
This particular easel has aged beautifully. Its surface bears scratches, small imperfections, and an uneven patina acquired through years of use. Nothing has been refinished or disguised, allowing the character of the original piece to remain.
A handsome addition to an artist’s studio, a collection of old working objects, or a home where art and history are equally appreciated.
Maker: Wolsey Co., El Monte, California, U.S.A.
Estimated Age: Mid-to-late twentieth century.
Dimensions: 18.25” tall × 17.25” wide.
Condition: Vintage, with visible surface wear and age-related patina. Original manufacturer’s label remains intact.
An old artist’s tabletop easel made by the Wolsey Co. of El Monte, California, believed to date to the mid-to-late twentieth century.
Its broad triangular frame has a deep brown finish, a wooden ledge for supporting paintings and drawings, and a folding rear support. The original red and black manufacturer’s label remains fixed near the top, a small but important detail of its history.
I have always appreciated the ordinary objects that once belonged to an artist’s working life. The wooden easels, worn brushes, paint boxes, and other instruments that spent their years in studios, holding the work of hands and imagination. There is something rather moving about finding these things long after the paintings they helped create have gone elsewhere.
This particular easel has aged beautifully. Its surface bears scratches, small imperfections, and an uneven patina acquired through years of use. Nothing has been refinished or disguised, allowing the character of the original piece to remain.
A handsome addition to an artist’s studio, a collection of old working objects, or a home where art and history are equally appreciated.
Maker: Wolsey Co., El Monte, California, U.S.A.
Estimated Age: Mid-to-late twentieth century.
Dimensions: 18.25” tall × 17.25” wide.
Condition: Vintage, with visible surface wear and age-related patina. Original manufacturer’s label remains intact.
