Cast Iron Mammy Appraisal

Mammy Figure Cast Iron Doorstop

This item is a vintage cast iron doorstop, shaped in the caricature of a 'Mammy' figure. Standing upright, the figure is predominantly painted in a vibrant red for her dress, contrasting with a black-painted face and hands, and a white, possibly yellowed, kerchief or collar around her neck. Her head is also wrapped in a red headscarf. The figure's arms are akimbo, with hands on hips, suggesting a firm or assertive stance. The dress is long, reaching near the base, and features prominent vertical folds or pleats, giving it a somewhat voluminous appearance. The construction appears solid and weighty, consistent with cast iron, designed for stability to function as a doorstop. Visible condition issues include areas of paint loss and wear, particularly on the raised surfaces such as the nose, cheeks, and edges of the dress folds, revealing the darker metal beneath. This suggests an item that has been used over time, acquiring an age-appropriate patina. There are no discernible maker's marks or stamps visible in the image. Stylistically, this figure is characteristic of the early to mid-20th century, a period when such caricatures were common in household decorative items. The craftsmanship is utilitarian, focused on solid construction for its intended purpose rather than intricate detail. The portrayal is a racially stereotypical depiction, which was prevalent in American memorabilia during that era.