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Title
Vintage Spoontiques 9914 Art Institute Chicago Lion Pewter Figurine 1994
Mobile Overview
Small in scale but distinctly Chicago, this vintage Spoontiques pewter miniature depicts one of the celebrated bronze lions guarding the Art Institute of Chicago. Marked Spoontiques 9914 and PEWTER underneath, with a photographed retail sticker dated October 1, 1994.
Description
This detailed vintage pewter figurine recreates one of the iconic lions standing outside the Michigan Avenue entrance to the Art Institute of Chicago. The miniature features a dimensional mane, defined facial features, muscular body, extended tail and an architectural pedestal reading “ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO.”
The full-size bronze lions were created by American sculptor Edward Kemeys and unveiled in 1894. One is traditionally described as “on the prowl,” while the other stands “in an attitude of defiance.” Together, they have become enduring symbols of the museum and the city.
The underside is cast with:
© Spoontiques
9914
PEWTER
An original retail sticker marked $12.99 and dated 10/1/94 was photographed before being removed to reveal the Spoontiques mark. The sticker is no longer attached.
This compact miniature works well in a Chicago collection, museum-themed display, curio cabinet, office, bookshelf or miniature collection.
Measurements
Height: Approximately 1.75 inches
Length/Width: Approximately 1.75 inches
Depth: Approximately 0.50 inch
Please review the measurement and scale photographs.
Few comparable examples of Spoontiques No. 9914 were located, particularly as an individually offered figurine rather than part of a larger Chicago landmark collection.
Condition
Very good vintage pre-owned condition with light surface wear and natural variations in the pewter finish consistent with age. The detailed mane, body, tail, pedestal and lettering present well.
The original dated retail sticker was removed from the underside to reveal the maker and material markings. Photographs document the sticker before removal and the uncovered marks afterward.
Please view all pictures to buy with confidence.
Giftable
A thoughtful gift for a Chicago native, former resident, visitor, art lover, museum enthusiast, lion collector or anyone with fond memories of the Art Institute of Chicago.
Buy Now
Add a recognizable piece of Chicago history to a curio cabinet, desk or bookshelf. Its small size makes it easy to display while the identified landmark, Spoontiques mark and documented 1994 retail date give it added collecting interest.
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Item Specifics
Brand: Spoontiques
Model/Item Number: 9914
Type: Miniature Figurine
Subject: Art Institute of Chicago Lion
Material: Pewter
Color: Silver Gray
Finish: Natural Pewter Finish
Era: 1990s
Time Period Manufactured: 1990–1999
Retail Date: October 1, 1994
Original Retail Price: $12.99
Style: Figurative Miniature, Architectural Souvenir
Theme: Chicago, Art Museum, Landmarks, Lions, Travel, Architecture
Features: Marked Spoontiques, Numbered 9914, Marked Pewter, Freestanding, Detailed Cast Design
Inscription: ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO
Occasion: All Occasions
Size: Small/Miniature
Measurements: Approximately 1.75 inches high × 1.75 inches long × 0.50 inch deep
Country/Region of Manufacture: Unknown
Original/Reproduction: Original Spoontiques Collectible
Condition: Very good vintage pre-owned condition
Care: Dust gently with a soft dry cloth; avoid abrasive metal cleaners
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