Cardinal Figurine Appraisal

Melvin China Cardinal B-743 Figurine

This item is a small, hand-painted ceramic or porcelain figurine depicting a bird, specifically identified by the context as a Cardinal B-743 from Melvin China. The bird figure is predominantly white or very light cream-colored on its body, serving as a base for painted details. The head and upper back of the bird feature a vibrant red coloration, indicative of a male cardinal. There are subtle brushstrokes and shading, suggesting an attempt at realism in the feathering, particularly around the wings and tail, which appear to be painted in shades of brown and possibly dark red. The bird's eyes are dark, appearing as painted dots with a small white highlight to simulate a reflective quality, and it has a noticeable beak that is somewhat flattened or truncated, painted in a yellow or light brown hue. The bird is perched on a green base molded to resemble foliage or a small bush, with visible leaf details. Its delicate feet, painted in a light color with black claws, are sculpted to grip this naturalistic base. The entire bird figure is mounted on a smooth, circular white pedestal or base. The craftsmanship appears to be of a reasonable quality for mass-produced decorative ceramics. Visible condition issues include some apparent dust or residue on the figurine which could simply be surface dirt, and possibly some minor paint loss or scuffing on the red areas of the head, though this is difficult to ascertain definitively from the image. The style suggests a mid to late 20th-century production, typical of ceramic bird figurines made for decorative purposes. The 'Melvin China' context implies a brand or manufacturer, suggesting factory production rather than a unique, artisan piece, and 'Cardinal B-743' likely refers to a specific model number within their line of bird figurines.