Preliminary identification

MBI Cast Stone Cat on Cushion Garden Statue

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

A charming, heavy vintage cast stone or composite garden sculpture depicting a fluffy white cat resting contentedly on a fringed blue cushion. Marked with the maker's initials 'MBI', this piece bridges the gap between whimsical home decor and durable outdoor garden art.

Story

In the late 20th century, American suburban gardens blossomed with whimsical stone creatures. This heavy feline, resting on its tasseled cushion, was designed to withstand the elements while bringing a touch of cozy indoor comfort to the great outdoors.

Maker / Origin

The 'MBI' mark is associated with mid-to-late late 20th-century manufacturers of cast stone garden ornaments and decorative home goods. These workshops specialized in using durable, weather-resistant composite materials to replicate the look of hand-carved stone, making art accessible to the everyday homeowner.

Condition & Value

The statue shows minor surface wear, dust, and slight paint loss consistent with age and display. There are no major visible cracks or chips, though the underside should be checked for structural integrity. Good condition overall. Value is driven by the popularity of vintage garden ornaments and cat-themed collectibles.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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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 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.