Most of you probably know of this place because of the infamous Folsom Prison that the Late Johnny Cash sang of. However, Folsom is a charming old town with great historical significance in our American heritage. It was one of the very first towns to spring up and take hold during the Great Gold Rush of 1849. (For those not so sporty people, 1849 is where the Football team the 49ers got its name.)
As in every older town, Folsom too has its “Old Town” Historical shopping area teaming with lots of fascinating store fronts; including two of my favorites, a “junk” store of sorts which houses all kinds of authentic vintage jewelries and trinkets; and a delightful chocolatier. I love to stand at the window and watch the chocolates being stirred until there are no longer any air bubbles or lumps—it’s like watching a magical chocolate river flow past as you daydream. Did I mention I love chocolate?
While shopping one day and wondering through various stores in Old Town I stumbled across an ink drawing and though I seemed drawn to it, I didn’t particularly love it. I was determined to search around the store for something I couldn’t live without, but found myself several times wondering back to stand in front of this artwork. Finally, I bought it. $20.00 was a reasonable price for a piece I certainly could live without.
I took it home and began to clean it up in order to decide just the right place to display it when I noticed signatures in both lower corners of the item. On the lower left corner is the artist’s signature in her maiden name. While the lower right holds her signature with her maiden and married names plus the items number. I own number 73 of 300.
Now I’m no art snob, but I do know enough to realize this picture has some value, so I researched the artist online and found that she was a famous Italian Artist from the 30’s and 40’s. I caught my breath and heartbeat in my throat as the information sunk in.
Needless to say, I have an appointment with an art dealer to determine its value. This Junk store find that I didn’t particularly love has fast become one of my favorite items in my home. It was twenty dollars well spent indeed.
Blue Jeans and Chocolate 