Look at pictures carefully. Although solid made/build and very sturdy, he does have some damage. I am not sure if he was originally in a glass case and the sun reflected on that part of his head to cause the damage, or if he originally had some kind of hat that was glued on. But the damage is visible and textured. Seems more like a burning incident. There are a few other marks on him as well. The fishing pole slides down through his hands. You could affix it in place, but I did not. His face painting and beard are really lovely though.