Antique Native American Women Pyrography Plaque

An antique wood pyrography round plaque depicting a Native American woman in profile. This style of art, known as pyrography (wood burning), was popular in the early 20th century.

The plaque is made of carved and lacquered wood using pyrography techniques, which involve burning the design into the wood.
Many similar items were mass-produced around the turn of the 20th century by the Flemish Art Company, based in New York City.
This one is made by Golde company, sticker on back.

Symbolism: The design incorporates traditional Native American symbols. The image of the woman with feathers symbolizes high honor and a connection to the divine. The swirling symbols visible in the background, near her headdress and at the bottom sides, are known as the "whirling log" motif (tsil no'oli' in Navajo). This symbol is an ancient sign for good luck, the four directions, and healing rituals, and predates its negative association with Nazism. Native American tribes largely banned its use in art af