Antique Handmade Circus Wagon Folk Art Model w/ Driver & Figures 18" Wood For Sale

Exceptional large vintage/antique handmade miniature circus wagon with articulated driver and accompanying animal figures.This is an unusually elaborate handcrafted piece measuring approximately 18 inches long and approximately 13 inches high. It appears to have been individually constructed rather than commercially mass-produced and features an impressive amount of functional and decorative detail.The wagon body is constructed primarily of wood with metal hardware and features an ornate cream and red painted finish with extensive gold-tone applied decoration. Multiple doors, panels and hatches open and are fitted with miniature hinges, latches, hooks and other hardware.One of the most remarkable features is the detailed handmade undercarriage. The builder constructed a complex wagon chassis incorporating wooden spoked wheels, axles, steering/suspension-type components, brackets, rods, chains and numerous individually fabricated mechanical details.The construction also incorporates repurposed vintage commercial crate lumber. Original printing remains visible on the unfinished interior/underside wood, including portions of old California/orange-related commercial markings and patent/trademark wording. This recycled lumber is an especially interesting part of the wagon's handmade construction.INCLUDED:• Large handmade circus wagon
• Articulated painted driver/man figure with hat
• Accompanying animal figures shown in the photographs
• Animal figure(s) with visible "AUSTRIA" markingThe figures are included with the wagon as acquired and are being kept together as a group. No claim is being made that every figure was originally manufactured specifically for this wagon.PROVENANCE:According to the previous owner, who is now in his 60s, he remembers playing with this wagon as a child and stated that it was already in his family at that time. It therefore has a documented family history extending back many decades, although the original builder and exact construction date are currently unknown.AGE / ATTRIBUTION:The exact maker and date of construction are unknown. No maker's signature has yet been identified on the wagon.Because the wagon incorporates older repurposed commercial crate lumber, the age of the printing on that lumber should not be interpreted as an exact construction date for the finished wagon.The piece is being offered as an unsigned handmade vintage/antique circus wagon or folk-art model based upon its construction, materials, appearance and known family history.CONDITION:This piece remains in unrestored, as-found condition and shows substantial evidence of age and use. Expect paint wear and loss, scratches, cracking/separation, oxidation, old repairs, aged or loose components and general wear throughout.Nothing has been refinished or cosmetically restored by the current owner.Please examine all photographs carefully for construction and condition. Additional detailed photographs are available upon request.An exceptionally unusual display piece for collectors of circus memorabilia, American folk art, antique toys, miniature wagons, carnival memorabilia, handcrafted models and Americana.Due to its unusual handmade construction, knowledgeable collectors who recognize the builder, construction tradition or prototype are always welcome to share information.