Pa. German Birth Certificate c. 1939

"Pa. German Birth Certificate" is a watercolor on paper artwork created in the 1930s by John Wilkes. This artwork is a visually appealing example of Pennsylvania Dutch folk art. The birth certificate of Maria Gablock is framed by a heart surrounded by concentric circles, and a border of stylized flowers and vines. The use of bright colors, such as red, blue, and yellow, is characteristic of this style. The artist's hand is evident in the calligraphic lettering, which records the birth date of Maria Gablock on January 5, 1799. The artwork is a testament to the unique artistic traditions of the Pennsylvania Dutch community.