Roanoke Farmer’s Market Ornament by P. Buckley Moss

Content & Subject

Roanoke Farmer’s Market Ornament by P. Buckley Moss is a numbered, limited edition porcelain ornament that beautifully captures the warmth, color, and community spirit of one of Virginia’s most beloved historic markets. Moss immerses viewers in the lively charm of an outdoor marketplace, featuring two women dressed in traditional attire tending their bountiful produce displays. Their bonnets and shawls echo the timeless traditions of regional craftsmanship and rural heritage, anchoring the scene in a sense of history and continuity.

The foreground of Roanoke Farmer’s Market Ornament bursts with fresh vegetables, flowers, and greenery—vibrant oranges, leafy greens, and soft blues that bring life and freshness to the composition. The crates labeled “MOSS” add a playful and personal touch, as if the artist herself were part of this bustling farmers market. Behind the vendors rises the distinctive red-brick architecture of the Roanoke City Market Building, one of the oldest continuously operating markets in Virginia. Moss’s depiction honors its historical significance while celebrating its ongoing role as a gathering place for artisans, growers, and neighbors.

Hanging flower baskets frame the upper portion of the ornament with soft pinks and purples, lending a cheerful brightness that draws the viewer’s gaze upward. Architectural details—from the canopy struts to the old-fashioned windows—create a harmonious blend of structure and softness. As part of the Moss Ornament Collection and the Moss Historic Collection, this ornament serves as a lovely tribute to community, local tradition, and the enduring culture of open-air markets.

Style & Technique

Moss employs her signature combination of fine linework, elegant figures, and gentle watercolor tones to create a balanced, evocative composition. The red-brick buildings are rendered with warmth and precision, their texture softened by the surrounding atmosphere. Soft shading blends sky and structure into a cohesive whole, while the vendor figures are sketched with Moss’s familiar elongated forms and expressive simplicity. The produce in the foreground is depicted in textured clusters and rounded shapes, adding visual richness without overwhelming the scene.

The round porcelain surface enhances the charm of the artwork, acting as a window into a moment filled with color, activity, and tradition. Moss’s uniquely stylized layering of figures, architecture, and florals gives the ornament an inviting depth that rewards close viewing.

Mood & Inspiration

The mood of the Roanoke Farmer’s Market Ornament is lively, warm, and filled with hometown pride. Moss celebrates the longstanding traditions of local markets where farmers, artisans, and families gather to share in the abundance of the season. Inspired by the cultural history of Roanoke and its vital marketplace, she captures the essence of community connection and the joy found in simple, meaningful exchanges. The ornament evokes memories of Saturday mornings spent browsing stalls, greeting familiar faces, and enjoying the rhythm of a thriving market square.

Placement & Gift Ideas

Roanoke Farmer’s Market Ornament is a delightful addition to a Christmas tree using the included cord, or it can be displayed throughout the year on a tiny easel purchased separately. Its rich colors and historic subject make it suitable for kitchens, living rooms, office shelves, or any space that celebrates local culture and tradition. As a gift, the Roanoke Farmer’s Market Ornament is perfect for Moss collectors, Virginia natives, history lovers, market enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates artwork that captures the spirit of community life. It also makes a thoughtful keepsake for birthdays, housewarmings, and celebrations of hometown heritage.

Includes a Certificate of Authenticity. (see FAQs)

🖼️ Collector’s Insight: Collectors of the Moss Historic Collection appreciate how this ornament blends regional history with Moss’s signature storytelling charm. The combination of lively produce stands, historic architecture, and expressive figures makes this a standout piece for those who value local heritage and community-centered art.

2011

Size: 3-5/16 inches diameter.

Any number of ornaments ship for the flat rate of $12.60