10.5" jointed wooden male Creche-type early 1800s

This is a unique item in excellent condition! The gentleman (although undressed, his demeanor suggests nobility) is completely hand-carved in riding position he may have originally had a horse and armor, or maybe he represents Cervantes Don Quixote? His pleasant simply painted countenance is enhanced by gesso built up to form his nose, eye area & ears. His hair is carved and painted medium grey in a long goatee, bald headed with puffs of hair over his ears. A tonsure on top of his head also has a hole, which probably facilitated a helmet staying on. The torso is narrow and straight also leading to the idea of armor. Arms are jointed at elbows & shoulders, plus the shoulders swivel so arms can be raised. The hands are large with all fingers separate and jointed at the wrist. The lower torso is a simple cage with a wide base, the legs are attached to the outsides of this so his jointed knees end up quite a distance apart (the horse theory holds with this stance), the lower legs have feet carved flat, painted ochre resembling boots. All of the joints are either pinned or pegged and the paint is thin & chalky. A metal rod runs from center bottom of torso, slightly longer than his legs, it is removable. He's such an interesting and well-carved figure, with endless possibilities!

$195.00