Antique / Early Handmade Leather Leopard Figurine – Folk Art Big Cat
Wonderful handmade leather leopard figure with a bold folk art presence. This piece comes from the estate of a high-end art dealer and antique/vintage collector, and the original collector tag identifies it as c.1900 handmade leather leopard.
The figure is covered in leather and then hand painted, with spotted leopard markings, expressive green glass-like eyes, black facial details, white underside, and a long curved tail. It has a fantastic handmade character — slightly primitive, whimsical, and full of personality.
Leather-wrapped and leather-covered animal figures were made as decorative objects, toys, and collectible animal models, often with a shaped inner core and hand-finished exterior. This example has the look of an early handmade folk art animal rather than a modern mass-produced figurine.
Details:
Condition:
Excellent antique condition. I do not see any damage. There are some light surface dust smudges and age-related surface wear, which would be expected for a handmade leather piece of this age. I did not attempt to clean it. Please review all photos closely, as they are part of the description.
This is a very unusual and visually striking antique / early handmade leather leopard with strong folk art appeal. It displays beautifully and would make a great addition to a collection of antique animal figures, folk art, primitive decor, safari decor, or unusual handmade collectibles.
I ship the same day or next day, including Saturdays, in a carefully packaged box.
Thank you for looking at the listing, and please feel free to reach out with any questions.