Rare Original 1870 Lola Ortez Painted Fairground Panel- Early Erotic Folk Art For Sale

An extraordinary and rare example of Victorian folk art, this original painted fairground panel dates to 1870 and features the seductive character “Lola Ortez”-a likely figure from the burlesque or traveling sideshow scene from the 19th century.
Hand painted on a tall, three board wooden floorboards, this striking panel showcases a bold female figure adorned in corset and gloves, surrounded by swirling red line work and moonlit backdrop. Rendered with confidence and flair, the image carries clear visual links to tattoo culture, early feminist art, and the graphic traditions of sideshow banners and burlesque signage.
This is a genuine piece of historic fairground art, likely once part of a traveling show attraction or erotic carnival painting used to draw a crowd. Its theatrical presence, stylized anatomy, and bold contrast make it a standout example of outsider art and folk surrealism.
A similar panel titled “Lola Ortez” dated 1880, was sold by Bonhams in 2011 for 3,125 British pounds ($4,251.56 US)! Confirming this subjects documented sale pedigree and collector value.
Details-
•Date: 1870 (hand-painted and dated)
•Subject: “Lola Ortez- 19th century fairground character
•Dimensions: approximately 72 inches in length, 17 inches wide, and 1- 1/8 inch thick
•Weight: approximately 24 pounds
•Surface: Original painted wooden planks with black iron braces
•Style: Folk Art/ Outsider Art/ Carnival Erotica/ Tattoo Style painting
Condition-
Beautifully aged. Natural patina, light wear, age-crackling consistent with age. Structurally sound with bracing and painting surface intact. Some minor paint loss and surface marks—expected and desirable in historic fairground panels. See photographs to see full condition.
This item will be taken to a professional packaging facility due to its size and value to assure safe travels during shipment.
Please message me if you have any questions about this piece.
(DOG IN PHOTOS NOT INCLUDED 🐕)