"Happy those early days, when I
Shin'd in my angel-infancy..."
Henry Vaughan
1622-1695
This 19th-century French wooden angel was
formed from a mould.
Often such a toy was
filled with tiny treats. Children would then
break apart a seam down the angel's body,
much like the pinata of Spanish and South
American customs.
Increasingly hard to find, this lovely cherub
was discovered treasure intact at an
antiquaire in Paris. To preserve the integrity
of the piece, I haven't broken it open.
Although I admit curiosity has me tempted!
What a great find! It's always facinating when you give historical information on the pieces you post. Also, I have been visiting Arts & Letters Daily since discovering it on your blog and love it!
PS Do you have any medical friends who might X-ray the angel for you?
Posted by: susanlavonne | 20 April 2006 at 19:43
What a interesting find. Thanks for sharing. I've never heard of these before.
Posted by: Jennifer | 20 April 2006 at 19:25
Aren't these interesting, I know of the man who bought the factory several years ago...I have a wooden cow and chicken. He had some amazing pieces.
Posted by: tongue in cheek | 20 April 2006 at 17:18