Early 20th-Century Hiawatha Tobacco Store Chalkware Bust

Title: Early 20th-Century Hiawatha Tobacco Store Chalkware Bust

Description:
This antique chalkware bust depicts Hiawatha, the legendary Iroquois leader and peacemaker immortalized in Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s epic poem. Crafted circa 1900 as a cigar store display figure, the sculpture presents a noble Native American warrior with flowing hair bound by a braided headband, adorned with layered beaded necklaces in red, yellow, blue, and green, a central medallion, bone-like earrings, and a draped shawl. The polychrome paint application highlights realistic skin tones and vibrant accessories, set atop a molded base with subtle decorative elements. This piece exemplifies early American folk art and advertising sculpture with its substantial size and historical resonance.

Key Features:

Large-scale chalkware construction with polychrome finish.

Detailed depiction of Native American attire and accessories.

Beaded necklaces, a medallion pendant, bone-like earrings, and a shawl.

Braided headband and flowing hair strands.

Molded base with Hiawatha inscribed for identification.

Solid and dense plaster casting is typical of high-quality cigar store figures.

Imagine This in Your Home:

Specifications:
Voltage: N/A
Period: Circa 1900
Style: Native American Folk Art
Pattern: Beaded necklaces, medallion, braided headband, shawl, and stylized facial features.

Origin: United States
Materials: Chalkware (painted plaster)
Maker’s Mark: “Hiawatha” inscribed on front of base

Dimensions & Weight:
Height: 28.5 inches
Width: 14 inches
Depth: 16.5 inches
Weight: 30 lbs

Condition Report:
Excellent overall condition.

Minor chips on the nose (painted over) and microchips around the base.

Possible age-related fading, small paint chips, and surface wear are present.

Polychrome finish well-preserved.

Light patina on the base and a porous underside, consistent with antique chalkware.

Maintain by dusting gently with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid moisture and direct sunlight to preserve painted surfaces.

Auction Terms:
No reserves—this lot will sell to the highest bidder, regardless of final price.
A 5% buyer’s premium applies, below the standard rate. The winner is responsible for credit card fees, packing, shipping, and taxes.
Unsold lots will be relisted in a new auction 60 days after the original closes.

Live Bidding Notice:
Lots close every 15–30 seconds. Place bids early to avoid missing the opportunity to own this item.

Packing & Shipping:
This bust will be securely packaged using double-boxed methods: bubble wrap, packing paper, peanuts, shrink wrap, and air pillows.

Shipping Box 1:
Weight: 30 lbs
Packing Fee: $250

Shipping Options:
Available options: LiveAuctioneer White-Glove or Standard Service (FedEx), Vintiqua In-House Shipping (FedEx or UPS), and local pickup in Petersburg, VA.

Inquiries:
For questions or to request a shipping quote, contact us with your details. We will respond within one business day.

Pricing:
Low Price Range: $600
High Price Range: $1200
Starting Bid: $300
Lot Number: 77