Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A stylized, heavy-cast metal insect figurine with a textured carapace and elongated hind legs. This piece represents the mid-century fascination with 'biomorphic' design, where the natural world was rendered in sleek, permanent metals like bronze or brass.
Story
Ancient cultures viewed the grasshopper as a symbol of nobility and luck. In the 1950s, these metal insects became the ultimate 'curiosity' for the modern home. This little traveler likely sat on a mahogany desk or a sun-drenched windowsill.
Maker / Origin
While many of these were produced in the workshops of Tokyo or Florence for the export market, they were often inspired by the high-art bronze works of designers like Richard Rohac or the Hagenauer Werkstätte. They represent a bridge between traditional lost-wax casting and modern decorative art.
Condition & Value
The figurine shows a beautiful natural oxidation (verdigris) which is highly desirable. There are no visible breaks in the delicate legs or antennae. This original surface aging adds about 20% to the value compared to a polished version.
Full Research
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.
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.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.