Folk Art Carving Appraisal

Hand-Carved Wooden Musician Figurine with Top Hat and Stringed Instrument

This item is a small, hand-carved wooden figurine depicting a jovial male musician playing a stringed instrument, likely a cello or double bass. The figure is carved from light-colored wood, possibly lime wood or a similar soft hardwood, and features hand-painted details. It stands approximately 4-6 inches tall, judging by the visual context. The musician is dressed in a greyish-green jacket, a red bow tie, and a black top hat, which shows some visible wear and dust accumulation. His face is characterized by rosy cheeks, bright red lips, and blue eyes with black pupils, conveying a cheerful expression. The style suggests a possible Tyrolean or Black Forest origin, common for such carved caricatures. The instrument is carved in a simplified yet recognizable form, with brownish-orange and darker brown segments to mimic wood grain. Noteworthy features include the prominent smile, the large, round cheeks, and the somewhat exaggerated features typical of folk art carvings designed to evoke character. The overall condition appears good for its age, with some minor scuffs, dust, and possible paint loss consistent with age and handling. There are no major cracks or repairs visible. The base is also carved from wood, suggesting the piece is solid and self-standing. The craftsmanship indicates hand-carving with visible tool marks, showcasing the artisan's skill in bringing the figure to life with simple yet effective details. The precise age is difficult to determine without further information, but it likely dates from the mid-20th century.