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Vintage large-format papier-mâché "Artist Clown" by noted Mexican folk artist Oskar Raoul, circa 1960s-70s.
This is the uncommon reclining pose — clown in yellow smock holding his palette, reading his own sketchbook with hand-drawn birds, cage, and hands on the pages. Most Oskar Raoul clowns on the secondary market are 8"–12" tourist pieces. Large examples are documented in sale records, including a signed #238/1000 at 24.5" high and a 30" "Clown in Airplane." This 17” version sits in that rare large-format tier.Details:
• Hand-molded papier-mâché with original glossy varnish
• Signed "Oscar" on sketchbook lower left corner (see photo ) — Oskar Raoul is documented as "a well known Mexican papier mache clown artist"
• Bright polychrome paint: red cap, blue hair, yellow smock with paint splatters
• Measures 17" H x 8" W x 6" D (tape photo included)Condition: Vintage with honest age wear consistent with 50+ years — see close-ups:
• various paint chips (view photos)
• minor paint flaking where legs meet
• fine craquelure to varnish overall, no repairs or repaintNo cracks to the body, displays beautifully. This is original surface, not restored.Shipping and insurance included
