Wonderful group of five hand-modeled, dark green glazed ceramic animal musicians, acquired together many years ago and kept together as a set.

The five whimsical figures depict different anthropomorphic animals playing musical instruments. They share consistent modeling, construction, glaze, facial treatment, hands and feet, suggesting they originated from the same maker or closely related workshop.

PLEASE NOTE: The color of these pieces is a very dark olive green. They may appear almost bluish in the photos, but they are green.

Attribution / Research

Based on comparison with documented examples, these figures are attributed to the Blanco family pottery tradition of Santa María Atzompa, Oaxaca, Mexico, possibly Faustino Avelino Blanco Núñez or his family workshop.

Avelino Blanco Núñez is documented for his distinctive animal musicians, including animals playing trumpets, guitars, drums and other instruments. Museum documentation also records a 1975 green-glazed goat playing trumpet by Avelino Blanco, while other published examples show groups of his miniature animal musicians.

The subject matter, expressive hand modeling and distinctive glossy dark-green glaze of this group closely correspond with that documented tradition.

The figures are unsigned and the attribution has not been independently authenticated. It is offered in good faith based on currently available research. Additional documented information is welcomed, and the listing will be corrected if new evidence warrants it.

Condition

Four figures appear in good vintage condition.

The long-snouted string-instrument player has a repaired break to the snout/beak area. The repair is visible upon close inspection and is shown clearly in the photographs. Please review all photos carefully for condition.

All five were acquired together and have remained together. They display beautifully as a miniature animal band/orchestra, with each musician having its own personality and instrument.

Origin: Attributed Santa María Atzompa, Oaxaca, Mexico

Maker: Attributed Blanco family / possibly Faustino Avelino Blanco Núñez workshop

Material: Hand-modeled ceramic/clay

Glaze: Very dark moss/olive green, glossy

Number of pieces: 5

Signed: No

Size: pieces vary from 4 1/4" to 5" tall

Sold only as the complete five-piece group.

Lovely set! Would be a great start for an even bigger musical ensemble.