Vintage 1940s Hollywood Regency Decor Figurines Chalkware

This is a wonderful pair of late 1940s or early 50s Hollywood Regency decor figurines made of chalk ware in the form of a female and male blackamoor, each holding out a bowl.  Blackamoors were European conceptions of Africans or Middle Eastern figures during the 17th and 18th centuries, usually presented in servant or courtly roles and dressed in orientalist costumes (turbans, jewelry and robes).  These depictions were re-popularized during the Hollywood Regency period.  We do not want to offend anyone who considers these racist and offer these only for their historical context.

Each of these vintage Danesi chalkware figurines is impress marked at the back with “Danesi Art” and retains its foil label affixed to the underside with “Made by Danesi Arts Toronto Canada”.  I believe that they were imported into Canada by Danesi from Italy.  They are hand painted in blue and black with gold and red accenting.  Each measures 9 3/4” in height, about 8 1/2” in length and 4 3/4” in width and together they weigh 8 lbs and 7 oz.  One has a glass dish for its bowl, while the other is missing the glass dish - this shouldn’t be too difficult to replace and really not necessary.  Difficult to know their intended original purpose, maybe to burn incense, or display trinkets or candy.  Both are in very good condition with no chips, cracks, or repair, but there is some paint wear to the edge of the bowl on both pieces (see last two close-up photos). 

These are very nice quality Italian made Danesi chalkware figurines - very decorative Hollywood Regency decor figurines….