Up for sale is a rare antique cast iron full-figure doorstop depicting a dapper penguin in formal evening attire—wearing a top hat, tuxedo cape/coat, white collar, and black bow tie, complete with a yellow beak and feet. Manufactured by the Hubley Manufacturing Company of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, catalog No. 463, circa 1930s.

This piece features a classic two-piece hollow-cast assembly joined with its central slotted machine screw at the back coat tail. It stands approximately 9.5 inches tall, measures 3.75 inches at its widest point, and weighs 2 lbs 15.9 oz.

The doorstop displays a clean, painted finish with light high-point wear, edge rubbing along the hat brim and base, and minor micro-pitting consistent with vintage cast iron.

Condition Details: There is a localized area of touch-up paint visible on the neck/throat directly beneath the beak covering a surface scratch or imperfection. Please examine all high-resolution photos closely to evaluate the painted surface condition, finish tone, and natural patina prior to purchasing.

Overview & Specifications

• Manufacturer: Hubley Manufacturing Company (Lancaster, PA)

• Catalog Number: No. 463

• Era / Age: Circa 1930s (Art Deco Period)

• Material: Cast Iron (Two-Piece Hollow Cast)

• Dimensions: Approx. 9.5" H x 3.75" W

• Weight: 2 lbs 15.9 oz

• Finish: Painted Polychrome Surface (White, Black, Yellow)

Authenticity Assessment

This doorstop displays key physical hallmarks of genuine 1930s Hubley cast iron manufacture:

1. Interior Cavity: The inner hollow wall displays the classic rough, granular sand-molding texture typical of Hubley's foundry techniques.

2. Seam & Assembly: Vertical side seams are tight and hand-fitted without modern power-tool grinding marks. The back halves are secured by a countersunk flathead slotted screw flush with the casting.

3. Base Rim: The hollow bottom edge exhibits operational wear with exposed oxidized iron along contact points.

4. Casting Detail: Crisp mold contours on the top hat, bow tie, collar, and webbed toes match verified Hubley catalog No. 463 specimens.

Reference

• Book Title: The Doorstop Book: An Encyclopedia of Antique Cast Iron Doorstops

• Authors: John C. Smith & Nancy M. Smith

• Page Reference: Page 47 (Cross-referenced in Jeanne Bertoia's Doorstops: Identification and Values, p. 60)

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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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