Description

Autumn at Silver Lake Mill Ornament by P. Buckley Moss

Content & Subject

The Autumn at Silver Lake Mill Ornament by P. Buckley Moss is a numbered, limited edition porcelain ornament that captures the serene beauty of harvest season in the Shenandoah Valley. A beloved piece within the Moss Ornament Collection and Moss Religious Collection, this artwork celebrates the quiet rhythm of country life and the changing colors of fall through Moss’s timeless folk-art style.

At the heart of the scene stands the historic Silver Lake Mill, its whitewashed walls glowing under a canopy of golden trees. The mill’s reflection shimmers in the winding stream as a horse-drawn buggy passes by on a country road—a reminder of simpler days and enduring faith. Pumpkins and autumn grasses fill the foreground, infusing the composition with warmth, abundance, and gratitude.

Each Autumn at Silver Lake Mill Ornament is crafted from fine porcelain, hand-numbered, and gift boxed for safekeeping. It includes a gold cord for hanging or may be displayed on a tiny easel (available separately) for year-round enjoyment.

Style & Technique

Moss’s masterful use of soft, earthy tones and delicate linework gives Autumn at Silver Lake Mill Ornament its nostalgic charm. Shades of burnt orange, sienna, and golden amber reflect the gentle shift of seasons, while her precise yet fluid brushstrokes lend texture and depth to the landscape.

The mill’s architectural details are lovingly rendered, showcasing Moss’s appreciation for America’s historic structures and the communities built around them. The warm background tones and muted highlights evoke the glow of an autumn afternoon—a hallmark of Moss’s ability to blend natural beauty with emotional resonance.

Mood & Inspiration

The mood of Autumn at Silver Lake Mill Ornament is tranquil, reflective, and deeply rooted in gratitude. Inspired by the artist’s connection to Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, this piece celebrates not only the splendor of autumn but the faith and hard work that sustain rural life.

The winding stream and mill wheel symbolize life’s steady flow, while the horse and buggy remind us of the simplicity and peace that come from living close to the land. Moss invites the viewer to pause, reflect, and give thanks for life’s quiet blessings.

Placement & Gift Ideas

This ornament adds rustic elegance to any holiday tree, autumn centerpiece, or display shelf. Its warm palette makes it suitable not only for Christmas but for year-round enjoyment, especially in farmhouse, traditional, or nature-inspired décor.

It’s an ideal gift for art collectors, history lovers, or anyone who cherishes the beauty of the countryside. Perfect for Thanksgiving, fall weddings, or housewarmings, the Autumn at Silver Lake Mill Ornament is a heartfelt reminder of heritage, home, and harmony.

Includes a Certificate of Authenticity. (see FAQs)

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🍂 Fun Fact:
The real Silver Lake Mill, located in Dayton, Virginia, dates back to the early 19th century. It remains a beloved local landmark and a symbol of the Shenandoah Valley’s agricultural history—frequently featured in P. Buckley Moss’s artwork. 🌾

🎨 Collector’s Insight:
Collectors prize the Autumn at Silver Lake Mill Ornament for its blend of architectural detail and seasonal color. Its depiction of the historic Virginia mill connects beautifully with Moss’s broader series of mill and rural landscape artworks, making it an essential addition to any fall-themed or heritage collection. 🧡

Silver Lake Mill, built in 1832 to grind corn into meal, has a rich history associated with the German Baptist Brethren and their Mennonite neighbors. The mill is located close to I-81 in the town of Dayton and is well worth a visit. Burnt by General Custer in the Civil War, it was first restored in 1866 and then again more recently by LDA Creations.

2016

3-5/16 inches diameter.

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