Pa. German Stove Plate c. 1936

This photograph, taken by Charles Von Urban in 1936, depicts a "Pa. German Stove Plate" featuring two birds perched on branches with the date "1769" carved beneath. The plate, likely crafted in Pennsylvania, is a fascinating example of folk art and displays the intricate detail characteristic of Pennsylvania Dutch decorative traditions. The use of relief carving and the simple but evocative imagery speak to the artistic skill of the anonymous maker and offer a glimpse into the lives of Pennsylvania German settlers in the 18th century.