Large Vintage Papier-Mâché Hippopotamus Figurine, 1970s

Details

Description

Original handmade decorative sculpture, ca. 1970–1980

An exceptionally decorative, large hippopotamus figure made of papier-mâché, most likely dating from the … Read more Original handmade decorative sculpture, ca. 1970–1980

An exceptionally decorative, large hippopotamus figure made of papier-mâché, most likely dating from the 1970s.

The sculpture has an extremely distinctive, almost surreal form. The hippopotamus was hand-molded and covered with a blue, hand-painted polychrome finish, featuring a contrasting pink tongue and black facial details. The visible, irregular texture of the papier-mâché and the hand-finished surface give the object a unique character.

The exact place of origin is unknown and cannot be attributed to a specific country without adequate evidence. However, the form and technique suggest decorative arts and crafts from the second half of the 20th century.

Dating
Circa 1970–1980.

The dating is based on the style, production technique, nature of the polychrome decoration, and the type of decorative papier-mâché sculptures found on the international vintage market.

Condition
The figure is preserved in its original, vintage condition, with clear signs of age and use.

Visible features include, among others:
cracks and fissures in the surface layer,
worn areas of the polychrome,
localized paint loss,
traces of previous use,
natural irregularities in the papier-mâché,
and wear on the surface of the feet.

These marks are part of the object’s authentic character and were neither concealed nor removed during restoration. See less