A wood carving plaque in original polychrome paints. 
Constructed of butternut wood from the solid. The exterior features a beautifully relief carved image portraying boastful foliage with imagery of the face of a gnome. Polychrome paints dress the entirety of the relief work. 
Gnomes became popular motifs in 19th c. Germany being a symbol of protection and good luck. German settlers in Ontario brought customs from homeland indicating this plaque was likely a rendition of homeland tradition bringing protection to a recently settled area of the time. 
Carefully and confidently executed. Remains in excellent condition with quality paint surfaces. 
Ontario, Canada originn possibly Waterloo or Kitchener area. Ca. 1900. 6 5/16"W x 4 3/4"T.