When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Universal Statuary Corp. Chicago — Native American Chief with Peace Pipe — Chalkware Figurine — 1972 — No. 225 — Excellent
He sits with the stillness of someone who has been sitting this way for a long time and intends to continue. Cross-legged, robes folded, a ceremonial peace pipe held across his body with quiet authority. The full war bonnet rises behind him in a dramatic arc of white, red, and black feathers — each one rendered with the kind of careful detail that the immigrant artisans of Universal Statuary Corp. brought to everything they made. The face is direct and composed. The turquoise accents on the headdress band and chest piece catch the light. This is not a mass-produced souvenir. This is a serious decorative figure, made by craftspeople who cared about their work.
Universal Statuary Corp. was a Chicago-based manufacturer that operated from the mid-twentieth century onward, producing chalkware and plaster figures that are now actively and passionately collected. The company made a deliberate effort to recruit Italian and Guatemalan immigrant artisans to America, providing them employment and housing while benefiting from their considerable craft skills. The result was a body of work — chalkware lamps, figural displays, decorative sculptures — that stands well above the typical commercial statuary of the era. Universal also produced contract work for Sears, Montgomery Ward, and major advertising firms, and their figures appeared as store displays, restaurant décor, and hotel accessories throughout the Midwest. This particular figure — catalog number 225, copyright 1972 — was primarily used as a decorative accessory on nightstands in Chicago area hotels, giving it a specific and charming provenance within the city's mid-century hospitality world.
The base is marked "Universal Statuary Corp. — Chicago — ©1972 — 225" in impressed lettering. At approximately 10 by 6 by 6 inches this is a substantial, solid piece with real presence on a shelf or mantle. The condition is excellent — no chips, cracks, or repairs, colors vivid and intact throughout.
Details:
- Manufacturer: Universal Statuary Corp., Chicago, Illinois
- Copyright: 1972
- Catalog Number: 225
- Subject: Seated Native American Chief with ceremonial peace pipe and full war bonnet
- Material: Chalkware / plaster
- Dimensions: Approximately 10" tall x 6" wide x 6" deep
- Provenance: Used as hotel nightstand décor in Chicago area hotels
- Condition: Excellent — no chips, cracks, or repairs
Condition: Excellent. No chips, cracks, repairs, or noticeable flaws. Colors vivid and intact throughout. Please review all photos carefully for a complete understanding of condition. Photos are of the actual item for sale. Not stock photos.
Terms of Sale — Please Read Before Buying
Shipping: This item will be carefully and professionally packaged to ensure safe transit. Shipped via USPS, UPS, or FedEx with full tracking provided.
Sales Tax: automatically collects applicable sales tax based on your state of residence.
Returns: We stand behind every item we sell and offer a hassle-free 30-day return policy. We make every effort to describe and photograph our items as accurately and thoroughly as possible. Please read the full description and review all photos carefully before purchasing — we want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase.
International Buyers: Please note that import duties, taxes, and customs charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These fees are the buyer's sole responsibility. We strongly encourage you to check with your local customs office to determine any additional costs prior to offerding or buying.
