Figure - Terracotta Figa - Terracotta

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John Laurance
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Selected by John Laurance

Thirty years' experience in decorative objects and two decades as shop owner.

Estimate  € 150 - € 200
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Terracotta Figa sculpture (Mano Fico), hand-modelled in terracotta, 16×10×7 cm, dating from 1910–1920, possibly Caldas da Rainha origin, in good condition with age-related wear and an unglazed firing-hole base.

AI-assisted summary

Description from the seller

Terracotta Figa (Mano Fico) Sculpture, modeled as a clenched fist with the thumb protruding between the fingers, a traditional symbol of protection, fertility, and good fortune in Southern European and Mediterranean folk culture.

The piece is handcrafted in terracotta and possibly attributed to Caldas da Rainha production, based on stylistic and material characteristics. However, no maker’s mark is present, and the attribution cannot be confirmed with certainty.

The sculpture displays a natural patina, expressive modeling, and surface wear consistent with age and use. The underside shows an unglazed base with a firing hole, typical of traditional terracotta manufacture.

Such objects were historically used as talismans or decorative folk pieces, often displayed in domestic interiors or workshops.

Material: Terracotta
Technique: Hand-modeled
Origin: Possibly Caldas da Rainha, Portugal (unmarked)
Period: 20th century
Condition: Good overall condition, with surface wear, minor imperfections, and firing marks consistent with age

Terracotta Figa (Mano Fico) Sculpture, modeled as a clenched fist with the thumb protruding between the fingers, a traditional symbol of protection, fertility, and good fortune in Southern European and Mediterranean folk culture.

The piece is handcrafted in terracotta and possibly attributed to Caldas da Rainha production, based on stylistic and material characteristics. However, no maker’s mark is present, and the attribution cannot be confirmed with certainty.

The sculpture displays a natural patina, expressive modeling, and surface wear consistent with age and use. The underside shows an unglazed base with a firing hole, typical of traditional terracotta manufacture.

Such objects were historically used as talismans or decorative folk pieces, often displayed in domestic interiors or workshops.

Material: Terracotta
Technique: Hand-modeled
Origin: Possibly Caldas da Rainha, Portugal (unmarked)
Period: 20th century
Condition: Good overall condition, with surface wear, minor imperfections, and firing marks consistent with age

Details

Era
1900-2000
Title
Terracotta Figa
Country of Origin
Europe
Material
Terracotta
Condition
Good condition - used with small signs of aging & blemishes
Height
16 cm
Width
10 cm
Depth
7 cm
Estimated Period
1910-1920
PortugalVerified
753
Objects sold
84.06%
Private

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