Antique Ivorytone Golden Retriever Figurine Appraisal

Antique Ivorytone Golden Retriever Figurine

This item is an antique figurine of a Golden Retriever dog, molded from what appears to be an early synthetic material or a composite resembling 'French Ivory' or 'Ivorytone,' characterized by its creamy, pale yellow color. The figurine depicts the dog in a standing pose, looking slightly to its left, with its tail gently curled and extending behind it. The craftsmanship is notable for its intricate detailing of the fur, especially around the neck, chest, and along the back, simulating the wavy coat common to Golden Retrievers through finely sculpted ridges and textures. The dog's facial features are stylized but discernible, including its snout, eyes, and floppy ears. The material has a subtle sheen, suggestive of age and a well-preserved finish. In terms of condition, the item is generally good, however, there is a visible tiny crack located just under the right eye, which is a significant condition issue that needs to be noted. There are no visible maker's marks, signatures, or stamps evident from the provided images. Given the 'Ivorytone' appearance and the stated provenance of being 'given to Margaret Wyncoop in 1908,' this figurine can be estimated to date from the late 19th to early 20th century, specifically around 1908 or slightly before. The lack of a brand suggests it could be a smaller-scale artisan piece or from a manufacturer that did not consistently mark their items. The overall quality and attention to detail in the molding speak to a certain level of craftsmanship for decorative animal figures of that era.