Overview
This is a classic 'spelter' or white metal statuary piece, designed to mimic the appearance of costly bronze for the burgeoning middle-class Victorian home.
Preliminary identification
Colonial Revival Spelter Figurine of a Revolutionary War Soldier
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Story
The 1876 Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia ignited a massive wave of 'Colonial Revival' nostalgia across America, making figures like this a staple of the patriotic parlor.
Maker / Origin
While unsigned, this piece is consistent with the output of major 'art metal' foundries such as the J.B. Hirsch Company or Bradley & Hubbard.
Condition & Value
The piece shows significant wear to the original bronze-wash finish, particularly on the hat and shoulders where the grey base metal is exposed. There is light surface oxidation and dust in the recessed areas. This level of wear is common for spelter but does reduce the value compared to a piece with a fully intact patina.
Full Research
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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Market Analysis
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
SOLD
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
SOLD
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
SOLD
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
SOLD
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375
SOLD