Overview
A whimsical, hand-carved wooden figurine depicting a tuxedo cat peering out of a silver-painted trash can, complete with a fish bone and a red book.
Preliminary identification
Hand-Carved Folk Art 'Alley Cat' Figurine, 2008
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Story
On March 20, 2008, a carver sat down to bring this cheeky character to life, likely as a personal project or a gift. While the digital world was rapidly expanding in the late 2000s, this artist was practicing the ancient, tactile tradition of whittling and hand-painting.
Maker / Origin
The monogram on the base, appearing to be 'JP' or 'JB', points to a regional artisan or a dedicated hobbyist carver.
Condition & Value
The piece shows minor paint scuffs and surface wear consistent with shelf display over the last 15 years. The wire whiskers are remarkably well-preserved, as these are often the first elements to be lost or bent on such figurines. Overall, the condition is good and the colors remain vibrant.
Full Research
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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 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