Large Vintage Tonalá Mexican Folk Art Owl Sculpture, Signed r.a.f.

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Striking large vintage Mexican folk-art owl sculpture, attributed to the pottery tradition of Tonalá, Jalisco, Mexico, and signed “R.A.F.” on … Read more Striking large vintage Mexican folk-art owl sculpture, attributed to the pottery tradition of Tonalá, Jalisco, Mexico, and signed “R.A.F.” on the underside.

This substantial hand-decorated ceramic owl features an expressive, highly stylized form with enormous amber-colored eyes, dramatic sculpted facial features, layered feather detailing, and colorful jewel-like accents surrounding the eyes. The warm cream, ochre, rust and brown palette has a beautifully aged, iridescent glazed surface.

The owl is constructed as a hollow ceramic sculpture, with an intentional opening on the rear providing access into the interior cavity. The opening appears to be part of the original construction rather than damage.

The underside bears the handwritten/painted “R.A.F.” mark. RAF-signed Mexican pottery is documented in the Tonalá pottery market, although the individual identity represented by the initials has not been conclusively established.

A particularly impressive example for collectors of Mexican folk art, Tonalá pottery, eclectic interiors, maximalist decor, or sculptural animal objects.

Dimensions: approximately 15" H × 9" L × 8.5" W
Weight: approximately 5.6 lb
Origin: Mexico, attributed to Tonalá, Jalisco
Material: Ceramic/pottery
Mark: R.A.F. See less