Stallion Figurine on Naturalistic Base
Decorative ceramic sculpture, slip-cast figurine • Likely American or European commercial pottery; style is consistent with manufacturers like Haeger, Shawnee, or similar mid-century decorative ceramic firms.
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern Decorative Arts / Stylized Realism
Medium & Technique
Glazed ceramic/porcelain; slip-cast molding with hand-painted facial details and a two-tone gloss glaze application.
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1940-1960)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 8-10 inches in height, 9-11 inches in length; free-standing three-dimensional format.
Subject Description
A white horse in a trotting or prancing pose, featuring a flowing mane and tail. The figure stands on an integrated brown earth-tone base that includes simplified floral or rocky motifs. The iconography suggests vitality and grace.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; visible surface wear and slight pitting in the glaze consistent with age.
Estimated Market Value
$30 - $75 USD
Auction Estimate
$20 - $50 USD
Provenance History
Likely a mass-produced consumer item for domestic interior decoration; no specific labels or stamps visible from the photo, but typical of estate collections of mid-century pottery.
Art Historical Significance
Representative of the post-war boom in affordable domestic decorative ceramics. While not a unique fine art piece, it reflects the era's aesthetic preference for animalier subjects in accessible materials.
Notable Features
High-gloss monochromatic glaze on the body contrasting with the matte-shaded base; hand-applied black pigment for the eye adds a distinctive 'folk' quality to the factory-style mold.
Condition Issues
Minor surface abrasions, potential crazing in the glaze (common for ceramics of this age), and localized dust accumulation in crevices.
Conservation Recommendations
Gentle cleaning with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap; avoid abrasive cleaners to preserve the glossy glaze; display away from shelf edges to prevent impact damage.