"The Lesson: Don't Play Near Crocodiles" is an enchanting and humor-infused porcelain sculpture by renowned artist Henry Cavanagh. This 1980 original captures the essence of Cavanagh's unique artistic vision, blending the whimsical with a touch of the didactic. Hand-built with precision, the sculpture utilizes underglazes, china paint, and lusters to bring the characters to vivid life, set against a backdrop of vibrant, yet muted, earth tones.This scene features a carefree hippopotamus, donned in casual attire with a fez atop its head, lounging in an armchair, seemingly engrossed in a cigar and the art of leisure. Adjacent to the laid-back hippo, an attentive child hippo, dressed in overalls and a cap, attentively listens to the adult hippo, perhaps delivering the day's lessons and news. The detailed rendering of textures and patterns—from the hippo’s skin to the fabric of the clothing—exudes a tactile quality that invites the viewer to explore every inch of the scene.Measuring 7 1/4 inches high, 12 3/4 inches wide, and 12 3/4 inches deep, the sculpture is thoughtfully set on a custom walnut base, which complements and elevates the narrative tableau. The careful attention to the storytelling element of this piece is a hallmark of Cavanagh’s work, which has been displayed at the Renwick Gallery of the National Museum of American Art by the Smithsonian, speaking to its artistic and cultural significance.In "The Lesson," Cavanagh communicates a narrative that is at once playful and cautionary, inviting interpretation and reflection. This piece is preserved in very good condition, with no chips or damage noted, maintaining its integrity as a collectible work of art. The piece is a testament to Henry Cavanagh's skill as a ceramicist and his ability to infuse his creations with charm, wit, and life lessons. It stands as an endearing example of Cavanagh's artistry and would be a distinguished addition to any collection.

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