loading
reading
writing
saving
searching
Vintage Brayton Laguna California Art Pottery, Voodoo Drummer Sta - $275 (Maynard)
Nason Street near Main Street
condition:
excellent
make / manufacturer:
Brayton Laguna
model name / number:
Voodoo Drummer
size / dimensions:
13" x 10" x 8"
QR Code Link to This Post
It is unmarked but I understand it can be found in the California Pottery price guide.
This unique ceramic statue of a muscular African Drummer was purchased in the early 1980s and was then already a survivor of history. I suspect it is from the 1950s or earlier.
I was immediately attracted to this beautifully crafted piece of art by the unusual fragile positioning of the hands and fingers in midair as opposed to a more common, safer placement of the hands touching the drum. I was also drawn to the anatomical correctness of his muscles and especially to the clearly defined tendons of his hands.
The statue is finished with matt black skin, crackle glaze white pants, and a flat and satin glaze drum.
The statue is in very good condition considering its age and vulnerability. The only flaws I see are a small non-black area on his left knee, and a larger non-black area on the back of his head [see photos].
I have read that an example of this figurine might been seen in the Alfred Hitchcock movie "Psycho". Near the beginning of the movie, there is an example of what might be this statue featured in the scene during which Janet Leigh, her boss, and a rich oilman are in the real estate office conducting business. Right behind the oilman's back, next to the lamp is the suspected example of this figurine.
Due to downsizing I no longer have a safe place to display him and hope to find him a good home where he will be loved and appreciated.
He will be a great addition to any art pottery collection!
Height – 13 inches
Width – 10 inches
Depth – 8 inches
Cash only: $275
Pick up in Clinton OR Maynard