Posted 6 years ago
willcastillo
(1 item)
This figurine used to be in my Grand-grand-mother's. I always liked it (I was probably 4 or 5 by then) and I was fortunate enough to "inherit" it when she passed away.
I know nothing about it and I'd love to know more... like... who made it? When? Material?
I'll do my best to describe it: Approximate dimensions are 11 cm L by 5 cm W, 7 cm H (4 1/4 in L, 1 3/4 in W, 2 3/4 in H)
Material seems to be a sort of resin.
On the bottom (as pictured) you can read ITALY and a series number 004 / 332. Funny thing is that one of those to numbers are upside down. I think "332" is flipped. Or... is it just the 4 that is flipped and the series number is actually 332/400?
I can't find any other mark :(
Any hint will be much appreciated!
I can't (immediately) tell you who made it but what I do know is that it's what was known as "Chalkware" if I'm right it'll be rather solid and heavy feeling and it'll date to just after WWII.
These kinds of wares were an attempt to recapture the golden age of Capo di Monte etc only on a much lower budget. Nonetheless, these pieces are quite sought after by collectors, their bright almost opalescent decoration and scenes o merriment appeal to those with a sense for the kitsch.
Thanks for your answer @BenznBitz! It's probably a silly question but... being Chalkware implies that the figurine is made of chalk/plaster of Paris? If that's the case then I don't think it is Chalkware. It is made of a malleable resin, like a soft plastic, so to speak. It is quiet solid, though, but I could, if I wanted to, bent the base of the figurine, the vase on the left, or their hats' wings... and it won't break... it will slowly get back to its original form.