Ceramic Piggy Bank Sailor Pig Appraisal

Ceramic Piggy Bank (Sailor Pig)

This item is a ceramic piggy bank, shaped like a standing pig. The pig is depicted with a jovial and contented expression, featuring closed eyes with painted eyelashes, a wide smile, and rosy-red cheeks and snout. Its overall body is rendered in a slightly off-white or cream color, with prominent pinkish-red accents on its ears, nose, and cheeks, suggesting a hand-painted finish. The pig is 'dressed' in a sailor-style outfit, consisting of a white shirt with horizontal blue stripes and solid blue pants or lower body. The stripes appear to be painted on, possibly underglaze or overglaze. The ceramic material has a glossy glaze throughout, indicating it was fired at a high temperature. The construction appears to be a single, hollow molded piece. The craftsmanship suggests it is a mass-produced decorative item, possibly from the mid-20th century, given its aesthetic. There are no visible chips, cracks, or significant surface abrasions, suggesting good to very good condition. The reflective surface of the glaze is evident, showing some glare from the surrounding light sources. The pig's plump form and friendly face contribute to its charm. It is likely designed with a coin slot on its back (not visible in the image) and a stopper on the bottom for coin retrieval. No specific maker's marks or signatures are discernible from the provided image, but such pieces often bear stamps on their underside. The overall aesthetic points to a whimsical or collectible design.