Decorative Object Novelty Item Appraisal

Bird's Foot Novelty Mount or Stand

This item is a novelty decorative piece, likely a stand or holder, featuring what appears to be a preserved or taxidermied bird's foot mounted vertically on a dark, possibly stained, circular wooden base. The bird's foot is dark brown to black in color, suggesting either a natural dark pigmentation, a preservation treatment, or significant aging. The talons are visible and appear sharp, typical of a raptor or similar bird of prey. The foot itself is elongated, forming the central upright element of the piece. Around the base of the foot, where it enters the wooden stand, there appears to be a binding, possibly wire or twine, that is dark and blends with the foot, suggesting it secures the foot to a hidden internal rod that anchors it to the base. The wooden base is circular, with a central recessed area where the bird's foot is mounted. It has a warm, medium-brown finish, likely a stained hardwood, and displays a notable sheen, indicating a polished or varnished surface. The base shows some signs of wear, particularly around the edges and on the flat surface, including minor scuffs or dust accumulation, but no significant cracks or chips are visible. The craftsmanship appears to be folk art or a curiosity, rather than mass-produced, given the organic, irregular shape of the bird's foot and the generally utilitarian nature of the mount. It likely dates from the mid-20th century or earlier, when such 'curiosities' were more commonly collected or displayed. There are no discernible maker's marks or signatures visible in the image. Its unique and somewhat macabre nature makes it a conversation piece.