
Description
Circa 1950s American painted chalkware cat. These figurines date back as far as the 1800s and were often used as carnival prizes. Chalkware is composed of plaster of Paris (a mold, in this example). Since it is unfired, unlike a glaze, its colors are exposed, and the coatings offer little protection. Hence, these pieces are easy chipped / broken, given the fragile quality of materials. Wear is accepted and expected with pieces of this material.
In this case, there is normal flaking / chipping along with an old repair (re-glued paw). The wear does not detract from the charm of the piece: the whimsical representation of the cat with oversized, green eyes and the character added by various pops of color (red, ochre, black) together make this a wonderful Mid-Century example of chalkware.
We have many chalkware animals and figurines from the 19th and 20th centuries listed separately, so check out our other items.
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: chips / one repair
Dimensions:
Height: 11 in.
Width: 6.25 in.
Depth: 4 in.
Category: Models & Figurines
Origin: United States
Materials: Paint, Plaster
Shipping:Domestic: Flat-rate of $27.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S. International: No International Shipping for this auction. Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding. Location: This item ships from Brooklyn, NY
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
In this case, there is normal flaking / chipping along with an old repair (re-glued paw). The wear does not detract from the charm of the piece: the whimsical representation of the cat with oversized, green eyes and the character added by various pops of color (red, ochre, black) together make this a wonderful Mid-Century example of chalkware.
We have many chalkware animals and figurines from the 19th and 20th centuries listed separately, so check out our other items.
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: chips / one repair
Dimensions:
Height: 11 in.
Width: 6.25 in.
Depth: 4 in.
Category: Models & Figurines
Origin: United States
Materials: Paint, Plaster
Shipping:
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Condition
Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; chips / one repair
Buyer's Premium
20%
1950s American Painted Chalkware Cat
Estimate $80-$230
Starting Price
$35
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Heirloom Edit, Session 1
Jan 26, 2026 6:00 PM ESTNew York, NY, United States
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