Lot #52: Vintage Mid-Century Hand-Painted Wooden Clown Nodder Bank

Vintage Mid-Century Hand-Painted Wooden Clown Nodder Bank This charming vintage hand-painted wooden clown nodder, standing approximately 12 inches tall, features a delightful spring-neck design and vibrant, multi-coloured segments. As a well-preserved piece from the 1960s, this item is in good condition, showcasing minor signs of handling and natural paint aging consistent with its age, which only adds to its authentic historical character. It is crafted with a central coiled spring neck, jointed arms, and a stable multi-colour tiered base, making it a perfect addition for any collector of mid-century decor or vintage toys. Item Type: Vintage Still Bank / Nodder Doll Era: Mid-Century Modern (Circa 1950s–1960s) Origin: Made in Japan (Features faint vintage ink stamp on the wood base rim) Dimensions: Approximately 11.5" H x 5" W Product Overview A delightful and well-preserved example of post-war Japanese novelty folk art. This charming wooden figure features a classic Harlequin or clown motif, meticulously hand-painted in a striking split color-block palette of vibrant yellow and teal-blue. Design & Features Mechanical Action: Features an exposed heavy metal coil spring neck that allows the head to bobble and nod smoothly when handled. Articulation: Equipped with two flat, pin-jointed wooden arms that freely swing at the shoulders. Bank Functionality: A functional still bank with an authentic coin slot cleanly carved into the upper back/shoulder area. Base Mechanism: The underside features a carved hollow cavity enclosed by a sliding tin friction door plate with a central keyhole detail Condition Report Overall: Good vintage condition with honest wear consistent with age and handling. Locking Mechanism: Please note there is no internal locking mechanism or latching hardware behind the sliding metal door. It is a completely open, hollow gravity-drop core designed to slide open via friction alone. No key is included or required to access the bank. Surface: Shows light, minor scuffs, and expected paint patina which enhances its authentic mid-century character. Paint remains bright and structurally sound. Mechanics: The spring neck retains excellent tension and bobs freely. The bottom metal track plate slides open smoothly Pickup at Yonge Street and Steeles Avenue Pickup category timeslot {A}