For sale is an early-20th-century American cast iron doorstop depicting a seated squirrel perched atop a naturalistic tree stump, nibbling on an acorn or nut held in its front paws. Cast as a hollow-back, single-piece wedge doorstop, the sculpture features rich, high-relief dimensional detail—including deeply incised fur texturing along the arched tail, delicate whiskers, facial contours, clawed paws, and a mossy tree stump base rendered with organic root flare.

The piece retains its original factory polychrome finish, featuring earthy tan-brown tones across the squirrel's body, subtle pinkish-orange undertones in high-wear areas, and hand-painted black accents detailing the whiskers, pupils, and claws. The tree stump base exhibits original forest-green and dark brown wash highlights simulating bark and moss growth.

The reverse reveals the classic smooth hollow-cavity casting signature of premier American foundries, with smooth perimeter seam grinding and no internal structural welds or modern casting flashings.

Item Specifics

• Item Name: Squirrel Eating Nut on Tree Stump Doorstop

• Manufacturer / Foundry: Attributed to Bradley & Hubbard Manufacturing Co. / Hubley Manufacturing Co. or other major foundry of the era (Unmarked hollow-back construction)

• Age / Period: Circa 1920s–1930s (Roaring Twenties / Interwar Americana)

• Origin: United States (Meriden, CT / Lancaster, PA)

• Material: Heavy Cast Iron with original polychrome enamel paint finish

• Dimensions: 9″ Height × 6.25″ Maximum Width × 4.75″ Base Diameter

• Weight: 4 lbs 2.5 oz (4.15 lbs)

Condition

• Overall Condition: Excellent Antique Condition with genuine age-appropriate wear.

• Paint Surface: Vast majority of original paint coverage remaining. Shows light, micro-crazing/crackling in the original lacquer/paint film along the tail and back curve, confirming historic age and authentic enamel formulation.

• Metal Structure: Free of cracks, fractures, chips, or weld repairs.

• Patina & Oxidation: Light, natural surface oxidation and rim rub present on the bottom mounting perimeter edge and interior hollow cavity consistent with ground contact and age. Completely unpolished to preserve historical integrity.

Authenticity Assessment

This piece possesses all the widely accepted physical hallmarks of a genuine 1920s American cast iron doorstop:

1. Iron Density & Weight: Weighs over 4 lbs at just 9″ tall, demonstrating the high-density fine gray iron used by early 20th-century American foundries rather than light modern alloys.

2. Casting Quality & Seams: Features exceptionally smooth perimeter edges and fine surface detail (whiskers, claws, tail fur).

3. Finish & Craquelure: Close inspection of the tail and back reveals microscopic craquelure/fine spiderweb crackling in the paint layer.

4. Base & Back Structure: The bottom surface shows smooth, long-term friction burnishing from resting on floor surfaces, while the hollow back cavity has a smooth, hand-finished contour.

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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.

Customer Service Commitment

We truly value our customers and prioritize building lasting relationships through exceptional service. If you'd like additional photos or have questions about an item, we're more than happy to provide them promptly upon request. In the event of any concerns after purchase, please reach out to us as soon as possible--certainly before submitting feedback--so we can work together to resolve the matter swiftly and fairly. Our utmost focus is on customer satisfaction, and we'll do everything in our power to ensure every transaction is smooth, transparent, and positive for you.