Chalkware...are you familiar with it?

Have you run across any Chalkware lately? 

Are you familiar with this art medium? Click here to see a description of Chalkware.

Just a few weeks ago I found this bust of a girl, and after researching the company that made it, I found it is definitely vintage. 

This was made by the Universal Statuary Company in Chicago. They usually have a date and often a number. I read that even though many different artists completed them, some of the artists would sign them, which was not encouraged by the company.

When I got her, she was in her original color which was a greenish color, not very pretty. 

All I could see was an antique white color on her. Sorry I was in such a hurry to do her makeover, I did not get a before picture, next time I will grab my camera first!

 I then went over her with a little stain to bring out the definition. I am not sure which I like best, but either way she looks better then before.

So for now she is living on my brick fireplace mantel...on the right, next to my dried hydrengas.

 (My walls are not really that bright, the camera does that in this room, and painting the walls is on my winter agenda!)

I recently found this "how can you possibly leave me behind" pooch at St Vinnys...so I didn't!

He is a nice size, about 13" by 9 1/2" and was made by Home Interiors and Gifts, which was a company that sold decorating accessories through representatives at home parties, they went out of business in 2008. He is dated 1996...he may not be vintage, but he looks like he could be!

I really do think he has character, and am not going to do anything to him, how could I??? 

I have noticed that the Chalkware pieces usually have felt on the bottom, and if you shake them a little, they have a rattle sound..which makes sense since they are made out of a gypsum material.

What do you think? Do you have any, or see it around much?

Please leave a comment and let me know!

Jan