Vintage Black popular Cat Statues Two Pair Siamese Mid Century Cats Universal Statuary 1960s Large Figurines Retro Decor Mod Kitsch Modernist Cubism
A vintage (circa 1961) pair of absolutely darling black Siamese cat statues in a modernist, cubism design; sitting cat figures in a retro, mid-century style, painted black with gold accents
Modern, Geometric Cubist Design done in 1961 by Universal Statuary Co in Chicago, Ill
Probably made from a cast resin (but also might be coated plaster or chalkware), Weighted at Bottom with Compressed Sand
Hand Painted Paint, Gold Detailing on Whiskers and Eyes
Hand Stamped Maker's Mark Underneath Tail on Back Sides
Pads on Bottom (note photos for some minor damage)
Great size! Each stands at 10 in tall popular and 5 in across at the widest part of the base
Great Vintage Condition! Some cracking as noted in photos (see tail of one of the statues, see small chipping like on cheek of one of the statues). (Also, some paint drips are visible, which in my opinion adds character, but I thought should be noted)
Listing is for one pair of the statues (2 statues total)
As a black cat owner myself (shoutout to Doogie, my absolute troublemaker!) and as a huge mid century design / all things retro lover, I knew as soon as I saw these come up at auction that I had to snatch these up for you guys! I just love these black cats' sweet, smiling faces! These weighted, mid-century style black siamese cats would look great in any home. They have the perfect retro flare for any vintage lover but have enough of a subtle, unique, and timeless cubist design that they would work with practically every decor style. I could see these styled in a gorgeous vignette on a side table or buffet, or styled as bookends on a vibrant, neutral, or black and white themed shelf! Would make a mod addition to any witchy, vintage Halloween collection too! Great kitschy vibe!
History of the Maker: Universal Statuary Corp. in Chicago, Illinois, was an American statue manufacturer founded by brothers Jack and Leo Lucchesi in the 1930s. Beginning on Chicago Ave. with mostly plaster and chalk ware products, Universal Statuary Corp moved to a new single story building on Ogden Ave. where they began working with experimental composites and eventually turned away from chalkware towards resins and created the material 'FiberClad InFrangible', guaranteeing their statues in this material would not break or chip. The company then went on to use plastics in their statues in the mid 1970s. They were notably famous for contract work with Sears, Wards, and many other advertising firms and department stores of the time.