There are some figure makers
today that are throw backs to a time gone by and Conrad Hartz is one
of those few. He still makes his figures using basswood and hand
carves them just like the old makers.
I am happy to present to you all this fine little fellow which was
crafted by Conrad earlier in his career. This creation was done in the
early manner of Frank Marshall's earliest style figures. The head was
made in two halves, front and rear, they separate on the sides of the
head with the carved ears being part of the back half. Conrad supplied
side to side non self centering eyes with the teeter totter cross bar
and slot jaw. His controls back at this time were made of brass. He
now uses plastic. He cut out on the head stick for the mouth
controller.
I find that this cheeky style boy is very much in the style of Frank
Marshall. I also feel it is one of Conrad's better renditions. I was
not able to see a date inside the head but I am assuming it is from
the late 70's or early 80's. His wig and paint are all original as
well as the very cartoony style hands. A very fine figure indeed!!
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