This is an expressive, beautifully hand-detailed vintage studio ceramic sculpture by the celebrated Israeli artist Yossi Nussbaum. The piece portrays a traditional Klezmer musician—a Hasidic fiddler—captured in a moment of joyful, dynamic movement. The figure stands with his arms outstretched, proudly lifting his violin in one hand while holding a metal bow in the other.

The sculpture is expertly crafted from hand-modeled clay, featuring an intentionally rough, highly stylized craggy texture that brings out the character of the figure's traditional clothing, full beard, and sidelocks (peyot). The attire includes a detailed Shtreimel (fur hat), a long coat with a variegated slate-blue and cream sponge-glazed pattern, and a visible tallit (prayer shawl) underneath. The front of the naturalistic clay base features Nussbaum's distinctive impressed signature cartouche, preserving its authentic studio origin. This vibrant piece perfectly encapsulates the spirit of traditional Jewish folk art and makes a striking display for any collector of mid-to-late 20th-century Israeli ceramics or Judaica art.

Technical Specifications

• Subject: Hasidic Klezmer Fiddler / Violinist

• Artist: Yossi Nussbaum (Signed in cartouche on base)

• Age / Production Date: Circa 1970s – 1980s

• Material: Studio Pottery / Terra Cotta Clay & Metal (Bow)

• Finish: Textured slip glaze, sponge-painted matte oxides, and glossy black enamel on the shoes and hat rim

• Dimensions: Approximately 7.75" Height x 6.0" Width

• Origin: Israel (Handcrafted Studio Ceramic)

Condition Report

• Overall Condition: Very Good vintage condition, structurally sound and complete.

• Ceramic Body: The hand-modeled clay body is free of notable chips, cracks, or structural breaks. The naturalistic glaze pops beautifully and displays excellent color retention.

• Base: The bottom is unglazed, revealing the raw, cut-from-the-wheel clay surface typical of authentic Israeli studio pottery.

Accents: The metal rod serving as the violin bow is securely set into the figure's hands, showing a trace natural vintage oxidation/patina that aligns beautifully with the age of the piece.

Item dimensions: 7.75" tall × 6" wide × 3.5" deep  

Weight of item only: 14.3 oz  

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