This very large, extraordinarily scarce, and utterly charming turtle features deep carving of both its Bakelite (catalin) shell and its wooden face, body, and legs. This skillful craftsmanship results in a wonderfully detailed and endearing piece of wearable folk art. Caught in mid-stride, the turtle appears to be walking vigorously. The Bakelite shell is translucent red/brown, in the shade known by collectors as root beer. The applied yellow glass eyes with their painted black pupils stand in sharp contrast to the dark brown wood and add a great deal of expression to the face. There is minor wear to the black paint of the pupils. The turtle’s tail is still present, but has frayed. It was originally a braid of 4 strands of plastic-coated woven ribbon. Most of the plastic is gone from the tail and it is no longer braided. Despite this normal and expected result of age, the tail is delightful as is or could be restored. Safety clasp holds well.
Measures 2-3/4 × 3 inches. Body to top of shell is 3/4 inch thick.
Excellent vintage condition.
This very large, extraordinarily scarce, and utterly charming turtle features deep carving of both its Bakelite (catalin) shell and its wooden face, body, and legs. This skillful craftsmanship results in a wonderfully detailed and endearing piece of wearable folk art. Caught in mid-stride, the turtle appears to be walking vigorously. The Bakelite shell is translucent red/brown, in the shade known by collectors as root beer. The applied yellow glass eyes with their painted black pupils stand in sharp contrast to the dark brown wood and add a great deal of expression to the face. There is minor wear to the black paint of the pupils. The turtle’s tail is still present, but has frayed. It was originally a braid of 4 strands of plastic-coated woven ribbon. Most of the plastic is gone from the tail and it is no longer braided. Despite this normal and expected result of age, the tail is delightful as is or could be restored. Safety clasp holds well.
Measures 2-3/4 × 3 inches. Body to top of shell is 3/4 inch thick.
Excellent vintage condition.
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