Lot # 141 - Vintage Hand-Carved Wooden Marionettes: Pig & Rabbit

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Marionettes, or string puppets, possess a rich history that spans centuries and cultures. While their exact origins remain an unsolved mystery, articulated figures have been discovered in ancient Egyptian tombs dating back to 2000 BC. Historically, these figures have served diverse roles ranging from sacred ritualistic objects and political satire to theatrical storytelling. By the 18th and 19th centuries, the craft of hand-carving wooden marionettes flourished throughout Europe—particularly in the Czech Republic, where puppetry became a deeply ingrained cultural tradition. Traditionally crafted from woods such as linden or basswood, these figures reflect a blend of artistic skill and mechanical ingenuity. This pair offers a nostalgic aesthetic, perfect for collectors of folk art, vintage toys, or whimsical decor.

Dimensions:

  • Pig: 9" x 3.5" x 8" (17" string height)

  • Rabbit: 9" x 3.5" x 9" (16" string height)

Please review all images to appreciate the craftsmanship and character of these unique pieces


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Opening Bid : $ 5.00
Start Date/Time: 16-Jun-2026 7:00:00 AM
End Date/Time: 23-Jun-2026 9:20:00 PM
Current bid:

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Highest bidder:

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Description :

This lot features a charming pair of vintage hand-carved wooden marionettes, consisting of a pig and a rabbit. These articulated figures are finished with hand-painted details and retain their original stringing and control bars.

Marionettes, or string puppets, possess a rich history that spans centuries and cultures. While their exact origins remain an unsolved mystery, articulated figures have been discovered in ancient Egyptian tombs dating back to 2000 BC. Historically, these figures have served diverse roles ranging from sacred ritualistic objects and political satire to theatrical storytelling. By the 18th and 19th centuries, the craft of hand-carving wooden marionettes flourished throughout Europe—particularly in the Czech Republic, where puppetry became a deeply ingrained cultural tradition. Traditionally crafted from woods such as linden or basswood, these figures reflect a blend of artistic skill and mechanical ingenuity. This pair offers a nostalgic aesthetic, perfect for collectors of folk art, vintage toys, or whimsical decor.

Dimensions:

  • Pig: 9" x 3.5" x 8" (17" string height)

  • Rabbit: 9" x 3.5" x 9" (16" string height)

Please review all images to appreciate the craftsmanship and character of these unique pieces



Auction History

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PAYMENT DETAILS

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Invoices are emailed to winning bidders once the sale has completely closed.Full payment must be made by 8:00 p.m. the day after auction closes. If total payment is not received before the pick-up date & time, items will be forfeited, and bidding privileges revoked.

Pick-up information will be on the invoice e-mailed after the auction closes.All items not picked up during the designated times will be considered abandoned and may be donated or resold. When possible, and at our sole discretion, an alternate pick-up time may be arranged. If this is possible, an appropriate fee will be charged. 

A 10% Buyer's Premium and Sales Tax are added to the winning bid amount when invoiced. Sales tax is waived for licensed re-sellers.

We make every effort to describe lot items as accurately as possible. Expect normal signs of wear associated with antiques, vintage, and used items. We do not list every flaw. All items are sold AS IS WHERE IS. No refunds or returns. Sound Estate Company does not guarantee the working order of any clock, watch, electronic or mechanical device. Dimensions given may be approximate.

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