Northern Cardinal Figurine Appraisal

Vintage Northern Cardinal Figurine

This is a small, hand-painted figurine representing a male Northern Cardinal, likely produced in Japan during the mid-20th century (circa 1950s-1970s). The item appears to be crafted from bisque porcelain or a high-quality cold-cast resin, featuring a matte finish that minimizes light reflection. The bird is rendered in a deep red palette with realistic black masking around the face and eyes, and a sharp orange-yellow beak. The construction shows fine molded detail, particularly in the overlapping feather patterns on the wings and the directional texture of the tail feathers. The posture is slightly tilted forward, suggesting an active, lifelike stance. Regarding condition, the surface displays a dusty patina and minor loss of pigment consistent with age, particularly along the sharp edges of the crest and tail. There are no visible cracks or structural repairs, though slight scuffing is present on the underbelly. The craftsmanship is typical of high-export Japanese giftware from the post-war era, prioritizing anatomical accuracy and delicate hand-painted accents.