Description
Add sculptural character and an exotic accent to a study, library, or living room with this striking antique hippopotamus figure. Crafted in France circa 1950, the large animal sculpture is fashioned from richly patinated brown leather and depicted standing firmly on all four legs.
The hippo is rendered with a rounded body, short tail, small upright ears, deeply modeled folds around the neck, and individually defined toes. Its dramatically opened mouth reveals four pointed ivory-colored teeth, creating an expressive and lifelike appearance. Carefully modeled eyes, nostrils, and facial wrinkles further enhance the figure's distinctive personality.
The dark brown leather surface has developed a warm, time-softened patina, with subtle variations in tone and texture that contribute to its authentic character. Substantial in scale, this unusual decorative sculpture would make a memorable addition to a gentleman's office, library bookshelf, console, or collection of animal figures. The antique leather hippo is in excellent condition commensurate with age and use.
Dimensions: 18.25" W x 7" D x 12.75" H
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Excellent - Wear consistent with age and use
Origin:
France
Materials & Techniques:
Leather
Details:
Art Subjects: Animals
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used
Country of Origin: France
The hippo is rendered with a rounded body, short tail, small upright ears, deeply modeled folds around the neck, and individually defined toes. Its dramatically opened mouth reveals four pointed ivory-colored teeth, creating an expressive and lifelike appearance. Carefully modeled eyes, nostrils, and facial wrinkles further enhance the figure's distinctive personality.
The dark brown leather surface has developed a warm, time-softened patina, with subtle variations in tone and texture that contribute to its authentic character. Substantial in scale, this unusual decorative sculpture would make a memorable addition to a gentleman's office, library bookshelf, console, or collection of animal figures. The antique leather hippo is in excellent condition commensurate with age and use.
Dimensions: 18.25" W x 7" D x 12.75" H
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Excellent - Wear consistent with age and use
Origin:
France
Materials & Techniques:
Leather
Details:
Art Subjects: Animals
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used
Country of Origin: France
Condition
Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Excellent - Wear consistent with age and use
Buyer's Premium
20%
Dimensions
12.75 x 18.25 x 7 in
Mid-Century French Patinated Leather Hippopotamus Sculpture
Estimate $750-$1,150
Starting Bid
$360
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Autumn Menagerie: Sculpture & Decorative Arts
Oct 15, 2026, 1:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
$2,200
$1,500
$7,500
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