Offering a highly collectible, authentic antique left-facing Boston Terrier cast iron doorstop, manufactured by the National Foundry of Whitman, Massachusetts, circa 1920–1930 (Design #149). While often misattributed to Hubley, this distinctive left-facing model was National's premier competitive answer to Hubley's right-facing hound.

Weighing over 9 lbs, this substantial two-piece hollow casting features a charming folk-art style, hand-brushed tuxedo pattern coat with an alert expression and prominent pointed ears.

• Material: Heavy Grey Cast Iron

• Origin: USA (National Foundry, Whitman, MA)

• Age: Circa 1920s – 1930s

• Design Number: #149 (Left-Facing Model)

• Weight: 9 lbs 3.8 oz

Dimensions: Approx. 10" H (to top of ears) x 9" L

The National Foundry "Unpainted" History:

Unlike Hubley, which primarily sold fully finished, factory-airbrushed pieces, National Foundry utilized a unique marketing strategy: they frequently sold their grey iron castings completely unpainted (often priced at $1.10 in period trade catalogs) or as complete DIY kits that included paints. This allowed retail buyers, distributors, or homeowners to paint the figures themselves. Consequently, the distinct hand-brushed paint job on this piece is a textbook example of 1920s-1930s home craft and historic folk art, rather than a modern touch-up. It is held together by its single, original period-correct flathead screw positioned on the left side of the casting. A wonderful addition for the serious collector of early American figural ironwork.

Condition: Good antique condition with excellent structural integrity. No cracks, breaks, or welds to the iron. The surface features an older, hand-painted finish showing honest, historic shelf wear, light flaking, and a deep, oxidized iron patina at the high points (muzzle and ears) consistent with its age and unique catalog origin. The single connecting screw is original and holds both halves tightly together.

Authenticity & Reference Assessment

This piece features all the benchmark characteristics of an authentic National Foundry Design #149 casting:

• Orientation: Left-facing stance (Hubley only manufactured right-facing doorstop terriers under No. 331).

• Hardware: Assembled using a single flathead screw mechanism on the left profile, standard for National's two-piece animal molds.

• Texture & Casting: Tight horizontal seams with the distinctively bold, expressive facial contours specific to the Whitman, MA foundry’s style.

• Literature Reference: Look to The Doorstop Book: An Encyclopedia of Doorstop Collecting by John C. & Nancy M. Smith, Page 129/143, for a comprehensive layout comparing National Foundry's left-facing variants alongside contemporary period manufacturers.

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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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