
Plastic wall plaque featuring ornate key motif by Dart Industries
History
This decorative wall plaque was produced by Dart Industries in the mid-20th century as part of their popular line of molded plastic home décor items. During the 1960s and 1970s, companies like Dart and Syroco mass-produced affordable ornamental wall hangings that mimicked the look of carved wood or gilded metal, bringing Hollywood Regency glamour to middle-class American homes. The key and crown motif symbolized elegance and sophistication, fitting perfectly with the era's taste for dramatic, theatrical interior design. These vintage wall plaques appeal to collectors of Mid-Century Modern décor, Hollywood Regency enthusiasts, and those who appreciate nostalgic Americana. The ornate key design evokes a sense of mystery and old-world charm, making it a conversation piece that adds character to modern interiors. Collectors value these pieces for their craftsmanship, historical significance as examples of 1960s-70s mass-produced decorative arts, and their ability to evoke the aesthetic sensibilities of that transformative era in American design.
Origin
United States
Maker
Dart Industries
Time period
circa 1960–1975