Novelty Ceramic Duck Figurine Appraisal

Novelty Ceramic Duck Figurine

This item is a novelty ceramic duck figurine, likely intended as a decorative piece or a planter, though its primary function as a planter is not fully discernible without a top-down view. The figurine depicts a duck in a standing or seated position, characterized by a rounded body, an elongated neck, and a distinct head featuring prominent black eyes with white pupils, giving it a somewhat whimsical or cartoonish expression. The duck's 'plumage' is rendered in an off-white to cream color with visible brushstrokes creating a textured effect, suggesting hand-painting. The beak is a vibrant yellow-orange, and the webbed feet, visible at the base, are similarly colored. A notable decorative element is a red ribbon tied around the duck's neck, forming a bow, with additional strands of red ribbon visible elsewhere on the body, possibly indicating a festive or patriotic theme given the red, white, and subtle blue (on the bow knot) color scheme. There is a small white tag with a yellow or gold top attached to the ribbon on the duck's chest, which appears to be a price tag or identification tag. The figurine rests on a green base, which mimics grass or water, indicating it is a self-contained decorative object. The ceramic appears to be glazed, providing a glossy finish. There are no immediately visible signs of cracks or significant chips, suggesting it is in good, albeit used, condition. The style points towards a mid-20th century to contemporary manufacturing period, typical of kitschy or charming home decor. The craftsmanship is decent for a mass-produced or studio ceramic piece, with hand-painted details adding to its character.