Vintage 1930s Carved and Painted Chalkware Popeye Figurine

Details

Description

Circa 1930s American painted chalkware "Popeye" figurine depicting the character in his signature attire - sailor hat and top, with … Read more Circa 1930s American painted chalkware "Popeye" figurine depicting the character in his signature attire - sailor hat and top, with black pants and boots with bulging, muscular arms displaying anchor tattoos. Bulbous facial features with one bulging eye raised with a vacant place for a corncob pipe.
Charming depiction of this iconic, popular character.
These figurines date back as far as the 1800s and were often used as carnival prizes, hence the alternate name, 'carnival chalk."
Chalkware is composed of plaster of Paris or sculpted gypsum (a carving, as opposed to mold, in this example).
Since it is unfired, unlike a glaze, its colors are exposed (usually hand-painted watercolors), 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 only light, general wear/patina present (spots of paint loss/nicks/etc, as shown). Exceptional condition given its age and materials.
We have many chalkware animals and figurines from the 19th and 20th centuries listed separately, so check out our other items.
H: 13.63" x L: 5" x D: 4" See less