Thomas Brooks “Leaner” Tobacconist Figure

Carved and Painted Tobacconist Figure of an Indian Chief, Thomas Brooks (New York City, 1828-1895). Depicted in the unusual “Leaner” style introduced by Brooks. Indian chief wearing fringed buckskin costume and leggings and large diagonally draped fur pelt, holding a bunch of cigars in his right hand, left arm draped across a large tree stump. What makes this figure so important is the rare hollowed-out underside carving on the animal pelt. See Fred Fried’s Artists in Wood, p. 183 for similar example. Base inscribed “Gold Leaf Tobacco Products.” Note the single golden leaf on the tree stump. Retains some of the original paint, but much of the paint and surface patina are restored. Size: 79” high overall, base is 27” x 25”.