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Large Neapolitan 19th Century Hardwood Sculpture of a Crèche Camel.

1890s

A 20th Century wood carved male figure, a 'Cigar Store Indian' with original polychrome decoration. A now controversial subject, but none the less charming rendition, of a native North American man originally probably used as an advertising figure. Wonderful quality of carving capturing the stance of the man looking out to the distance, hair flowing to his back and plait to the side, all the details of his costume, his native dress and hairpipe breastplate (suggesting he is possibly a Comanche) and chest ornament, apron, trousers, mocassins, shield and arrows. The original Polychrome decoration has weathered beautifully as has the wood itself to present a sculpture that would adorn any collection or interior. Because of the general illiteracy of the populace, early store owners used descriptive emblems or figures to advertise their shops' wares. American Indians and tobacco had always been associated because American Indians introduced tobacco to Europeans. As early as the 17th century, European tobacconists used figures of American Indians to advertise their shops. Because European carvers had never seen a Native American, these early cigar-store "Indians" looked more like Africans with feathered headdresses and other fanciful, exotic features. These carvings were called "Black Boys" or "Virginians" in the trade. Eventually, the European cigar-store figure...

Mid-Century Ibibio wood carving of a Great Hornbill or (Kalao) from Nigeria. (The carving is shown in the first photo on a bamboo stand which is available if required.) The Great Ho...

A superbly carved camel statue, early 20th century, Morocco, exceptionally executed, the North African Art Deco Orientalist figural carving features fine...

We are excited to present this camel sculpture with lovely aged leather on hand-carved wood. It has been made for Liberty's in London. This full-grown and very realistic dromedary or camel has both great aesthetic and decretive value. They have been made for the kids of the wealthy people that shopped by Liberty's. Underneath the leather, the hide is a very well-carved wooden sculpture which is why the sizeable camel has such realistic features. It is a very realistic sculpture and a good size, it also has the original leather which makes it even rarer. We feel that the maker of this work of animal art has beautifully captured the look and soul of this majestic desert animal...