Unusual vintage hand-painted monkey/chimpanzee character head featuring a colorful top hat and cigarette in its mouth. A wonderfully strange piece with tons of character and great folk-art/carnival appeal.
The figure is constructed of a lightweight papier-mâché/composition-type material and is hollow at the bottom. It may originally have been mounted to a larger figure, carnival or amusement display, novelty prop, or mechanical/animated character.
The monkey has exaggerated blue eyes, large ears, bright red lips and a tall blue top hat, all finished in vivid yellow, green, red and blue paint. The small cigarette remains in the mouth.
Approximate size: 7" tall x 4.5" wide.
Estimated to date from the early-to-mid 20th century, although the exact age, maker and original purpose are unknown. No maker's markings have been found.
Condition: Shows considerable age and use, including cracks, chips, paint loss, scratches and surface wear. There is substantial deterioration and material loss around the lower neck/base, along with evidence of old repairs or adhesive. The top hat also has noticeable paint loss. Please review all photographs carefully as they are an important part of the condition description.
A fantastic display piece for collectors of vintage carnival memorabilia, folk art, amusement park items, monkey collectibles, advertising figures and unusual oddities.
Sold as found and unrestored.
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