Lot 309
An exceptional and comprehensive mid-20th century Bossons chalkware wall mask collection comprising twenty-four finely modeled and hand-painted character heads, representing one of the most diverse and visually compelling groupings of classic Bossons masks to appear on the market.
This museum-quality assemblage spans the full spectrum of Bossons’ celebrated figural repertoire: maritime captains, pirates, and weathered seafarers; Scottish Highlander; Bavarian and Tyrolean pipe smokers; continental gentlemen; occupational studies including chef, miner, naval officer, and fisherman in oilskin; folkloric archer; richly detailed Native American chief; turbaned character study; and an uncommon black Labrador sporting dog example. Several masks retain their original Bossons foil hang tags reading “Handpainted Bossons - Chalkware,” an increasingly scarce survival that significantly enhances collector confidence and desirability.
Each mask is sculpted in high relief with masterful attention to physiognomy - deeply carved wrinkles, expressive brows, individualized facial hair, and finely articulated costume details including pipe bowls, feathered caps, textured oilskins, tartan caps, and lifebuoy collar. The layered hand-applied polychrome finish remains vibrant and dimensional, showcasing the distinctive artistry that made Bossons a cornerstone of mid-century decorative wall sculpture.
Overall condition is very good vintage display condition. Select examples exhibit minor edge nicks and extremely small chips consistent with age, handling, and wall mounting. No major cracks, breaks, or structural repairs. Paint surfaces remain strong with only minimal, scattered surface wear. The collection presents cohesively and impressively when displayed as a wall grouping.
While individual Bossons masks are collectible in their own right, large intact thematic groupings of this scale and diversity are increasingly difficult to assemble, particularly with multiple original hang tags present. The inclusion of both maritime and folkloric subjects alongside the Labrador example broadens cross-collector appeal. Such a comprehensive grouping is ideally suited for high-end interior installation, themed hospitality spaces, or advanced Bossons collectors seeking to acquire a ready-made curated ensemble in a single acquisition.
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| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $99 | $5 |
| $100 | $299 | $10 |
| $300 | $499 | $25 |
| $500 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $2,999 | $100 |
| $3,000 | $9,999 | $250 |
| $10,000 | $49,999 | $500 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $1,000 |
| $100,000 | $999,999 | $5,000 |
| $1,000,000 + | $10,000 |