Antique Swiss Black Forest Style Bear Folk Art Carving

Description

A large and most impressive late 19th century Swiss Black Forest style hand carved and painted wooden bear sculpture (also … more A large and most impressive late 19th century Swiss Black Forest style hand carved and painted wooden bear sculpture (also known as a Black Forest bear)

Displaying superior carving and sculptural work, the exceptionally executed naturalistic rendering giving the appearance of being simultaneously in motion walking on the prowl while giving a dramatic growl.

High-quality traditional Black Forest folk art,
most likely Swiss, but possibly originating near the border of Switzerland in Southern Germany or France, circa 1890, hand carved from a single block of solid wood, modeled as a figural bear standing on all four, aggressive stance with head slightly raised, tilted and teeth exposed. Finely detailed, having a realistic face with original inset glass eyes, mouth agape with visible tongue and teeth, painted decoration to mouth interior, dark brown wavy articulated fur throughout with roughly sculpted underside. No apparent signatures, typical of the period.

Dimensions: (approx)
16" Wide, 9" High, 9" Deep;
Weight: 8lbs

Provenance / Acquisition:
2024; Acquired from the highly reputable auction house Austin Auction Gallery, est.1983, Austin, Texas. Day-2 English Antiques, Firearms & Western catalog

Condition Report:
Great original antique condition with warm rustic patina. Strong, sturdy, stable, attractive appearance enhanced by beautifully aged lightly worn original finish, patina, antique character, charm, and warmth, minor expected wear consistent with age, use and handling.

The rare life-like authentic antique European Victorian era Black Forest bear statue is truly an exemplary example, perfect for any serious collector, as a decorative object / decor in your rustic lodge, country home, Adirondack cottage, or primitive hunting cabin, or as a powerful, thought provoking, and inspiring gift idea, wherever it's placed, its sure to become the focal point of any space! less