A characterful and unique antique hand carved, wooden articulated puppet in the form of a monkey. Dating from the late 19th/early 20th Century, was produced in Germany (as so many toys and puppets were at the time), and would have been used in a travelling show to entertain (and probably scare) the children. A folk art piece of the highest level, with beautifully carved hands/feet, that possibly would have been gripping a branch or rope in the show. The head has been meticulously crafted to include weighted eyes and mouth that open and close as the head is tilted. He has had an eventful life, showing signs of age and use, including missing one ear, one arm is glued to the body where the shoulder joint has been broken at some point in his career, and he has also sustained a broken ankle in the dim and distant past, and lost some fingers on his left hand. Apart from these minor issues, everything else is fully functional, if a little tired. The original fixing holes for the strings can be seen in his head, hands and feet. He has most definitely retired from the entertainment business, but would happily while away the hours in a peaceful home. A fantastic display piece with loads of character. Measures: 40cm tall x 15cm wide DELIVERY OF THIS ITEM: Insured courier delivery of this item will be £20.
