The Top 300! - Spring Classic Part 2
Lot 215:
Description
One of 2 carved wood polar bears (companion piece is lot 216) that came off of the Russia wagon which was part of the “Nations” tableau wagons built for Ringling Brothers Circus in 1903 by the Bode Wagon Co. of Cincinnati Ohio. To read the full history of this wagon go to: https://circushistory.org/project/russia-tableau/ .
This bear is the “right facing” bear. Made of laminated layers of solid wood, the bears were hand carved and painted. They feature a standing polar bear with one paw on a dead seal that it has captured for its next meal. In overall VG condition considering it is 123 years old and spent a good portion of its life stored outside. The paint seems to be original color scheme but because all existing photos of the wagon are black & white, it is hard to tell. Paint in overall good condition with fade, and some peeling. A true piece of not only circus history but artistry in wood ranking along side carousel horses and cigar store Indians. Measures approx. 58″W X 29″T X 4″ thick.
Note: Pickup/Transport required. Contacts available post auction.
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