FINE AND RARE AMERICAN FOLK ART CARVED AND PAINTED SIR WALTER RALEIGH TOBACCO / CIGAR STORE TRADE FIGURE WITH KENTUCKY HISTORY, solid body form in the round, the standing caped figure with striped pantaloons and feathered Cavalier-style hat, his right arm raised at the waist, his left arm on his hip. Retains a historic period paint-decorated surface with old varnish overcoat. Reserve. Possibly the shop of Samuel Anderson Robb (New York, 1851-1928). Fourth quarter 19th century. 82" HOA.
Provenance: From the collection of Charles W. Sawyer, Winston-Salem, NC.
Catalogue Note: According to notes provided by the consignor, Mr. Charles W. Sawyer, the present tobacco trade figure was displayed at the entrance of the Brown and Williamson Tobacco Co. headquarters in Louisville, KY. Mr. Sawyer worked for Brown and Williamson for three decades, beginning his career as a foreman in charge of the manufacture of Sir Walter Raleigh brand tobacco and ending as an executive based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. He acquired the present trade figure from his employer in 1964 when the company was clearing out its warehouses in Louisville. A rare form in 19th-century tobacco trade figures, the present Sir Walter Raleigh carved and painted wooden figure represents the highest level of 19th-century American folk carving, made further desirable by a specific Southern provenance.
Shipping Note: IN-HOUSE SHIPPING IS NOT AVAILABLE FOR THIS LOT. Please contact our local UPS store store6595@theupsstore.com for information on shipping or see our website for a list of third-party shippers https://www.jeffreysevans.com/buying/pick-up-and-delivery.
Good overall condition with expected minor to moderate areas of wear, cracks, and discoloration. Split to torso. Heavier wear, with breaks and repairs to right arm. Cracks, breaks, and old repairs to feet. Other scattered small repairs. Lower platform base and rear support are old replacements.