Bench Figurine Appraisal

Elderly Shoemaker/Cobbler Figurine on Bench

This is a detailed ceramic or resin figurine depicting an elderly man, likely a shoemaker or cobbler, diligently working on a shoe while seated on a wooden bench. The figurine is characterized by its realistic and expressive features, including wrinkles on the man's face, suggesting age and a life of labor. He wears a checked shirt, a blue vest, and patched trousers, which further emphasize his working-class persona. One foot is bare, while the other is clad in a worn, reddish-brown boot. His hands are focused on a shoe, with a tool, possibly a hammer or a lasting tool, in one hand. On the bench beside him, there are other tools, including what appears to be an awl and a red-handled knife. The base of the figurine is sculpted to resemble a grassy, uneven ground, complete with small stones, leaves, and what looks like a discarded tire fragment, adding to the outdoor, rustic setting. The color palette is earthy and muted, relying on browns, greens, and blues, which contribute to its antique or vintage aesthetic. The craftsmanship appears to be of good quality, with attention to textural details, such as the wood grain on the bench and the fabric folds on the man's clothing. There are no immediately obvious chips, cracks, or significant damage visible in the provided images; the surface appears to have a matte or lightly glazed finish. Without specific maker's marks, it is difficult to ascertain precise manufacturing details or a specific artist, but the style suggests it could be from the mid-to-late 20th century, possibly a collectible piece from a brand known for character figurines like Capodimonte or similar studios that produce highly detailed, narrative pieces.