This is a French vintage sculpture, likely cast white metal but with a bronze patina. A charming figure of a Chile playing string-ball, the end of the string is a hook to display one's pocket watch at bedside. While it has the look of a 19th century piece, perhaps was cast from antique mould, it is a vintage piece. I found it in France, one of the window displays of a tiny boutique in the 6th, through which many generations of watchmakers (likely passed father to son) finally succumbed to the digital world, and auctioned off all - possibly a tax sale. Remnants of an analog era, I bought several items at the auction a bit out of longing and concern for the family. Their store, tiny inside - perhaps enough room for 2 customers at a counter only 8 or 9 feet long, and a 50 sq foot service or customer area - you know the type. Tiny space, selling only one kind of item. Full measurements noted on photos.
Very good to excellent, not antique but vintage, a nice plinth-mounted figure which certainly has the look and feel of an antique. The wire and ball the boy plays with ends as the hook for displaying pocket watches. I see no damage to report. Very nice piece. Our price is our cost, as I only bought it to support the watchmaker's family.
