The NCA Carousel Identification Project on this page was completed on 08/26/11
The Request:
Hello, I found this carved wooden Zebra at a storage unit auction in Hull, MA.
It is somewhat crudely made and definitely has some serious age to it. The paint is original and rather a bit brittle. I don't suspect it was a carousel horse to ride on - I see no evidence of a pole hole or anything like that. I thought that perhaps it was a decorative piece from a carousel or carnival or circus. The head, legs and tail are joined to the body and I believe at one time were able to come off. Seeing that it is from Hull, the town of Paragon Park, I thought it could be affiliated with that park.
I love this thing and would appreciate ANY information you might be able to provide. I think if nothing else it is a nice piece of folk art.
The zebra measures about 40" from tail to front leg and about 42" high. It's solid wood. If you have any questions feel free to ask. Thank you very much!
The NCA Conclusion:
This zebra carving was made approximately 20 - 25 years ago in Asia. These Asian and similar carvings made in Spain were produced for the decorative art market. This zebra was never intended to be on an operating carousel. The mortised neck, the solid body and no pole hole all trademarks of an Asian repro/new carving.
