An authentic, early 20th-century set of six (6) solid cast iron minstrel / jazz band musician figures. This complete 6-piece ensemble depicts seated African American musicians playing traditional jazz instruments:

1. Double Bass (Upright Bass / Cello) – Featuring handwritten ink inventory cataloging marks on the front soundboard.

2. Saxophone – Curving down into a prominent wide bell.

3. Trumpet / Horn – Held outward with a flared bell.

4. Accordion / Concertina – Detailed with original ridged bellows.

5. Guitar / Banjo – Held horizontally across the lap.

6. Flute / Piccolo (or Clarinet) – Held sideways across the face.

Each figure measures between 2.0" and 2.75" in height, with a combined total weight of 1 lb 6.6 oz across all six pieces.

The set exhibits original cold-painted finish consisting of blue trousers with red suspenders, yellow/tan shirts, red collars/ties, and detailed facial paint over a dark base coat. The pieces show authentic, aged paint loss, edge flaking, and light surface oxidation consistent with original early 1900s cast iron toys/paperweights.

Material: Solid Cast Iron with Original Cold-Painted Finish

Origin: United States (attributable to American foundries such as Hubley Manufacturing Co., Lancaster, PA, or A.C. Williams)

Age: Circa 1920s – 1930s (Early 20th Century)

Condition

• Overall Rating: Good / Very Good Antique Condition

• Paint: Original cold-painted finish with expected flaking, chipping, paint loss, and surface patina appropriate for age and material. No repainting or touch-ups detected.

• Structure: Complete set of 6. No cracks, breaks, repairs, or missing limbs/instruments.

Authenticity Assessment

Close examination confirms these figures display the definitive physical markers of authentic 1920s–1930s cast iron production. The underlying iron exhibits a fine-grained, smooth surface typical of early American sand-casting techniques rather than the coarse, pebbly texture found in modern Asian recasts. The parting lines/mold seams along the sides are hand-filed and flush.

Furthermore, the paint layer displays legitimate "cold-paint" degradation—spontaneous flaking, micro-crazing, and natural edge wear exposing dark oxidized iron underneath rather than artificial chemical distressing or modern enamel gloss. The handwritten ink catalog numbers visible on the double bass further support longstanding private collection provenance.

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Item Description and Condition Disclaimer

We take great care in researching, identifying, and describing each antique item to the best of our ability, drawing on available resources and hands-on examination. However, as dedicated enthusiasts rather than professional appraisers or certified experts, we cannot offer guarantees on authenticity, age, origin, or precise valuation. We strongly recommend that buyers perform their own due diligence, including consulting reference materials or experts, and thoroughly examine the accompanying photographs. These images are an essential component of our listing and depict the item's actual condition, including any visible flaws, wear, or imperfections consistent with its antique nature. It is the buyer's responsibility to inspect each lot and form their own assessment on condition, description and authenticity before purchasing. All items have signs of wear commensurate with age and usage. The lack of statement regarding condition does not imply that the item is in perfect condition or free from any and all defects. If you have any questions regarding the condition of the items, please ask and we will be more than happy to answer and/or provide additional photos as requested.

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