This I'd say is the finest figurative carving I've had, and I think quite exquisite. The three button frock coat looks Civil War era to me, and I would guess our gentleman is African American. I could look at his face all day, finding in it the look of a keen observer and poetic soul, with the exaggerated size of his trumpet-like ears furthering the sense of being acutely tuned in to the world around him, and his perfect posture, chin slightly raised and hands in pockets, conveying a sense of complete self-possession. Marvelous.
I purchased this from a wonderful Boston-based seller, who told me it purchased it from a notable collection in Beacon Hill. He is missing the front of one foot but in otherwise in excellent condition, all the more beautiful for his many years. He stands on a screw that comes up from the underside of the base but is easily removed, as shown in photos.
Carved of a dark hardwood. Figure alone measures 7 7/8" tall x 2 5/8" w x 1 1/2" d. With base: 9 1/8" t x 3 1/8" w x 2 1/8" d.
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