Overview
A solid, sand-cast iron representation of a draft horse, likely a Clydesdale or Percheron, featuring its original 'cold-painted' white finish.
Preliminary identification
Cast Iron Draft Horse Figurine, c. 1920s-1940s
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Story
Before tractors and delivery trucks dominated the landscape, the draft horse was the literal engine of American life, pulling everything from fire engines to milk wagons.
Maker / Origin
While unsigned, this piece is consistent with the output of legendary foundries like Hubley in Pennsylvania or Arcade in Illinois.
Condition & Value
The piece shows significant paint loss and surface oxidation (rust) consistent with age and play. There are no apparent cracks in the iron or missing limbs, which is excellent. The heavy wear to the paint reduces its value to a 'mint' collector but enhances its charm as a decorative antique.
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