Vintage chalkwear cobra

a vintage mid-20th-century plaster or chalkware cobra statue, likely produced for decorative or novelty purposes.  Material and Construction Analysis The images show a large, upright cobra with a flared hood, raised head, and coiled base. The surface exhibits a textured, scaly pattern with horizontal banding on the hood and body, consistent with molded plaster (often called “chalkware”). Chalkware consists of plaster of Paris, typically mass-produced as affordable home décor or carnival/novelty items from the mid-1900s.  The off-white/pale color results from either an unpainted or originally lightly finished piece that has aged, or a painted version where the original color has worn away. Signs of age include surface wear, discoloration, and minor chipping or cracking, which are common in such porous material. Likely Origins • Mexican manufacture is frequently noted for similar large chalkware cobras from the 1960s–1970s. These were exported or sold as tourist/novelty items.  • U.S. companies such as Universal Statuary Corp. (Chicago, often dated 1967) produced comparable large plaster cobras (around 16–18 inches tall). These were sometimes promotional or general décor pieces and came in various colors (green, etc.), though white/painted versions exist.  • It is not an antique (pre-1900) fine art piece, nor a high-end stone/alabaster carving, nor a modern resin reproduction. It aligns with mid-century mass-produced decorative statuary. Similar Items and Value Estimation Comparable vintage chalkware/plaster cobras (typically 9–18+ inches tall) appear on platforms like Etsy, eBay, and Mercari: • Smaller examples (around 9 inches) sell in the $40–$80 range, often with paint wear.  • Larger ones (16–18 inches, similar in scale to yours) range from approximately $50–$150 or more, depending on condition, completeness, and any original markings or vibrant paint. Heavier, well-preserved pieces or those with documented maker marks (e.g., Universal Statuary) can reach higher values in the low hundreds.  Estimated value for your statue: Likely $175–$250 USD in its current condition,

Condition

Reconditioned/Certified