Early 20th-Century Hiawatha Bust, Wood & Plaster

Title: Early 20th-Century Hiawatha Bust, Wood & Plaster

Description:
This antique bust sculpture portrays Hiawatha, the legendary Iroquois leader immortalized in Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s epic poem. Carved from wood and coated in plaster for enhanced detail and durability, the figure is rendered in a dignified profile with long black hair bound by a red headband. He wears layered necklaces of colorful beads, yellow claw-like pendants, a circular medallion, and a draped brown shawl over his shoulders. Mounted on a red rectangular base, this large-scale sculpture reflects early 20th-century American folk art and cigar store display traditions, offering strong decorative appeal for collectors of Native American-inspired Americana.

Key Features:

Wood carving with protective plaster coating for texture and longevity.

Polychrome hand-painted finish with realistic skin tones and vibrant accessories.

Traditional attire: red headband, beaded necklaces, claw pendants, and a medallion.

Draped shawl with sculpted folds for added dimension.

Mounted on a red rectangular base.

Imagine This in Your Home:



Specifications:
Voltage: N/A
Period: Early 20th Century
Style: Folk Art
Pattern: Red headband with ties, layered necklaces in red and yellow, claw pendants, circular medallion, brown shawl.
Origin: United States
Materials: Wood, plaster, paint
Maker’s Mark: None

Dimensions & Weight:
Height: 29.5 inches
Width: 16 inches
Depth: 10.5 inches
Weight: 21 lbs

Condition Report:
Good condition for its age.

Multiple chips are visible on the sculpture and base, along with paint flakes, microchips, and slight cracks, as shown in the photos.

Possible age-related fading.

Structurally sound with well-preserved form and finish.

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

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 sculpture will be securely packaged using double-boxed methods: bubble wrap, packing paper, peanuts, shrink wrap, and air pillows.

Shipping Box 1:
Weight: 21 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: 79