5 Card Stud by Gerri Mattson The Trail of Painted Ponies Sculpture

Wonderful piece of work in excellent condition. No box. ***ask for more photos Artist: Gerri Mattson Sponsor: Dorothy W. Queen and The Carlsbad Foundation Figurine Introduction Date: January 2003 Dimensions: Approximately 6.5" High X 7.5" Wide Materials: Ceramic Item #: 1459 Release Date: Winter 2003 Form: Standing Retired: January 2008 Last Number at Retirement: 5E/1533 Artistic inspiration comes in many forms. Before she began to paint her pony, Carlsbad artist Gerri Mattson, a secondary art teacher for 25 years, drew upon her experience and gave herself an assignment. She drew up a list of words relating to horse. "Stud" caught her eye. She started sketching related ideas. This led to the game of poker. Gambling, horse racing, casinos, and lottery images followed... The Trail of Painted Ponies is a beautiful line of Horse figurines introduced by Westland Giftware, the creator's of Cow Parade. It is modeled after the New Mexico-based public art project called The Trail of Painted Ponies. In the history of art, the horse has always been an enduring source of inspiration. Giftbeat, the publication that prides itself on taking "the product pulse of the gift industry" has ranked Painted Pony figurines, manufactured and distributed by Westland Giftware, #1 in the animal-themed collectible category. Painted Pony figurines are mounted on bases similar to more expensive art pieces, and are sequentially numbered on the underside so that collectors can immediately determine where their piece fits in the casting history. By developing a regular retirement program, Painted Pony figurines have made the leap from charming collectibles purchased because people like the way they look and make them feel, to investments that are appreciating in worth. Several of these early retirees have now sold for well over $500. Collect these now before they climb any higher! These delightfully gorgeous Horses will surely be a highlight of any collection.