L. Carvin Menier Chocolate Mouse Advertising Paperweight, circa 1910

Details

Description

Charming and unusual early 20th-century French advertising sculpture depicting a realistically modeled mouse climbing across a molded base prominently inscribed … Read more Charming and unusual early 20th-century French advertising sculpture depicting a realistically modeled mouse climbing across a molded base prominently inscribed “MENTIL.”

The diminutive sculpture displays remarkably expressive modeling for its scale, with the mouse rendered in relief with finely articulated fur, ears, paws, and facial features. The surface retains an attractive aged dark brown and greenish patina.

The base bears the molded signature “L. CARVIN,” associated with French sculptor Louis-Albert Carvin (1875–1951), an artist particularly recognized for his naturalistic animalier sculptures.

An additional cursive inscription along the base appears to read “Offert par C. Chausson,” indicating that the object was likely produced as a French promotional or advertising piece. Its combination of animalier sculpture, commercial advertising, and unusually small scale gives it considerable character as a collectible desk object or cabinet curiosity.

A wonderful example of the crossover between French decorative sculpture and early 20th-century advertising.

Dimensions:
4 in. long × 1 3/8 in. deep × 1.75 in. high. See less