1950s American Painted Chalkware Cat

Details

Description

Circa 1950s American painted chalkware cat. These figurines date back as far as the 1800s and were often used as … Read more Circa 1950s American painted chalkware cat. These figurines date back as far as the 1800s and were often used as carnival prizes. Chalkware is composed of plaster of Paris (a mold, in this example). Since it is unfired, unlike a glaze, its colors are exposed, and the coatings offer little protection. Hence, these pieces are easy chipped / broken, given the fragile quality of materials. Wear is accepted and expected with pieces of this material.
In this case, there is normal flaking / chipping along with an old repair (re-glued paw). The wear does not detract from the charm of the piece: the whimsical representation of the cat with oversized, green eyes and the character added by various pops of color (red, ochre, black) together make this a wonderful Mid-Century example of chalkware.
We have many chalkware animals and figurines from the 19th and 20th centuries listed separately, so check out our other items. See less