An Early 20thC Art Deco Era Devotional Plaque; ‘Christ is the Head of this House’ c.1930

Origin: Irish
Period: Early 20thC
Provenance: Unknown
Date: c.1930
Width: 10”
Height: 8.5”

The evocative and increasingly elusive devotional plaque retaining its original marbled composition board printed in unusual striking art deco inspired red and black lettering, bearing the familiar household blessing; “Christ is the Head of this House, the Unseen Guest at Every Meal, the Silent Listener to Every Conversation,” the plaque bordered by a decorative black and gilt dotted paper binding, lending an understated elegance to what was intended as a daily reminder of faith within the family home and surviving from 1930s Ireland.

The typography and restrained design place it comfortably around the 1920s–30s, when such plaques were commonly displayed in dining rooms and kitchens but comparatively few have survived in original condition, with most surviving versions being later reproductions in wood or ceramic. The plaque remains in honest, untouched condition, displaying the mellow patina one would hope to find. There is age-related wear throughout, including minor edge losses to the original paper binding, light marks and staining to the face, and some slight distortion to the board. The reverse retains its original hanging cord and papered finish, with no evidence of later restoration. It presents extremely well and possesses the quiet authenticity so often lost in cleaner examples.

The wording itself has been in circulation since the late nineteenth century and became particularly popular in British and American Christian households during the early decades of the twentieth century. Intended as a blessing over the home and a gentle reminder of Christian conduct, the verse reflects the tradition of domestic devotional objects that once occupied pride of place within family interiors. While later versions were mass-produced in a variety of materials, original English examples of this deco style are encountered surprisingly infrequently. 

A wonderfully atmospheric piece of vernacular religious history, combining strong graphic appeal with genuine decorative presence. Whether appreciated for its devotional significance, its distinctive period typography, or as an unusual survivor of early twentieth century domestic life, it makes an engaging addition to any interior.