Rocking Horse Figurine
Decorative small-scale sculpture • Mass-produced decorative arts; likely of Indian or Korean manufacture for the Western export market
Style & Movement
Traditional/Folk Art Revival; Mid-to-late 20th-century decorative brassware
Medium & Technique
Cast brass with an antiqued or aged patina; lost-wax or sand casting method
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (circa 1970s-1990s)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 6 to 8 inches in height; free-standing three-dimensional format
Subject Description
A stylized rocking horse featuring a simplified anatomical form, a saddle blanket detail, and curved rockers with scroll ends. It represents a nostalgic toy motif often used in home decor.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; showing age-appropriate wear and surface oxidation
Estimated Market Value
$25.00 - $50.00 USD
Auction Estimate
$15.00 - $30.00 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; typical of items sold through gift shops or interior decor catalogs during the late 20th century
Art Historical Significance
Minimal; it serves as a representative example of the commercial brassware trend popular in Western interior design during the late 20th century rather than a unique art piece.
Notable Features
Includes a visible saddle blanket casting and decorative scrollwork on the rockers; the heavy patina suggests an attempt to mimic an antique 'heirloom' appearance.
Condition Issues
Minor surface scratches, uneven patina, and darkening due to oxidation (tarnish) in the recessed areas of the casting.
Conservation Recommendations
Keep in a dry environment to prevent further oxidation; gentle dusting with a soft cloth. Avoid abrasive chemical cleaners which may strip the intended aged finish.