Jennifer Frantz - Perrysburg, OH
Ohio artist and historian Jennifer Frantz is inspired by the wallscapes of Rufus Porter. She was introduced to Rufus Porter's work at the Dr. Moses Mason house in Bethel, Maine. Built in 1815, the house has wallscapes dating back to approximately 1835. Drawn to their rich color and technique, Jennifer felt a calling to continue the heritage of this style in a medium that was accessible to the average homeowner.
Hung on the wall or greeting guests underfoot at the front door, floorcloths by Jennifer bring color and texture to just about any room. Whether it is a reproduction or a design of her own, her artistry is evident.
From marbled geometric, to graceful stenciled flower motifs and Rufus Porter inspired designs, floorcloths complement a room full of antiques as well as contemporary furnishings.
Today, Americana Floorcloths are made from the same heavyweight cotton canvas as they were centuries ago. Environmentally safe, water based paints and finishes are used in place of oil paints and varnish. Each Americana Floorcloth is put through a series of steps to ensure a finished piece which will lie flat and maintain its shape, colors and finish.
Bradford Mercantile sells all of Jennifer's floorcloths and will work with the artist to develop custom designs.
Not all floorcloths are available for sale online. Cloths that are available for online purchasing can be seen via the link below. Otherwise, please view the downloadable PDF catalog and either call or visit the shop for ordering information.
Click Here to Download Catalog
The use of painted canvas floor coverings, also known as "oyl cloths" dates as far back as the 14th century in Europe. When people came to this country they were looking for ways to reproduce some of the furnishings they were used to back home. Resources were limited, but worn sails from ships provided them with a base to paint and cover the floor with. American primitive paintings often depict subjects standing on boldly geometric floorcloths. William Burnet, Governor of New York and Massachusetts during colonial times had floorcloths listed in his household inventory. George Washington ordered floorcloths for his Mt. Vernon retirement home. Canvas was more readily available than any other rug and carpet supplies, and the ease of cleaning made floorcloths particularly desirable. Placed over wide boards, the heavily painted canvases cut cold drafts and were cool underfoot in the summer. Over time, floorcloths proved themselves to be one of the most durable forms of floor covering used. Centuries-old pieces still remain intact, with the pattern clearly visible.
With 8 coats of extremely durable, yet flexible, polyurethane protecting each painted piece, Americana Floorcloths will stand up to the most demanding traffic, from children to dogs, hallways to heavy furniture.
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