Rucksack Sculpture Appraisal

Spelter Sculpture of a Boy with Rucksack and Basket

This is a detailed sculpture, likely crafted from spelter, depicting a young boy in a pose that suggests looking into the distance, perhaps shading his eyes with one hand. The figure wears what appears to be a rustic or peasant-style tunic with pleats and a collar, and pants. A rucksack or satchel is slung over his shoulder with a strap visible across his chest and back, which contains what might be books or other provisions. In his other hand, he carries a small basket, possibly filled with gathered items, though the contents are not clearly discernible in the image. The material, identified as spelter, gives the piece a dark, aged, metallic appearance, possibly with a patinated finish that simulates bronze or an antique cast iron look. The surface displays a somewhat mottled or textured finish, consistent with older spelter castings or intentional surface treatment, and shows areas of lighter gray against darker tones, indicating wear or a natural aging process. No specific maker's marks or signatures are visible in the provided images. The style appears classical or European folkloric, suggesting an estimated age from the late 19th to early 20th century, a period when spelter sculptures were popular as affordable alternatives to bronze. The craftsmanship appears to be of reasonable quality for a spelter piece, with attention to facial features and drapery of the clothing. While no significant damage such as breaks or repairs are immediately obvious, the overall condition suggests some surface wear consistent with age and handling.