What is a dummy board?

A dummy board is a life-size painted wooden figure fashioned to stand in a room as a decorative companion. Makers cut these figures from timber before applying oil paint to depict servants, soldiers, or animals. These pieces were placed near fireplaces or doorways to startle visitors or simply to furnish empty corners. Surviving examples retain their original shaped boards and historic painted surfaces.

How do I identify naive art?

Naive art shows an absence of formal perspective, correct anatomical proportion, and classical training. The maker relies on personal observation and straightforward mark-making to capture figures and spaces. This approach yields honest portraits and landscapes with immense character and direct emotional presence. The charm rests in the maker's unvarnished interpretation of their subject.

What woods were used?

Pine serves as the primary wood for many painted chests, cupboards, and boxes listed here. Hardwoods also appear in structural elements and smaller carved decorative items. Local craftsmen selected these timber types for their availability and ease of working. Painted finishes were then applied directly over the prepared wooden surfaces.

How should I care for painted wood?

Painted wooden objects require stable indoor humidity away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Harsh chemical cleaners must be avoided to protect the historic pigment layers. Dusting gently with a dry, soft cloth preserves the fragile surface integrity. Respecting the original patina ensures these pieces survive for future generations.