Bidspirit auction | Hagen-Renaker ”Little Horrible” Figurines

Hagen-Renaker ”Little Horrible” Figurines - Item/Description: Rare 1950s Hagen-Renaker California studio art pottery figurines from the short-lived Little Horribles novelty line. Designed by artist Nell Bortells and produced by the American pottery workshop in Monrovia, California between 1958 and 1959. Formed from slip-cast ceramic earthenware, the line is a characteristically grotesque, cartoonish design, a playful mid-century departure from Hagen-Renaker's standard realistic miniature animal figurines. Each figurine included a catchphrase saying. Lot includes ”Ashes to Ashes” (#438), depicting a frazzled creature comically peering out from inside a trash / garbage can / rubbish bin with his oversized flat feet protruding forward. This figure's saying is: ”Why rush it?.. I was gonna resign anyway.” Also includes, ”Hard Working Harry” (#424), a monster-like character straining to hoist a heavy barbell weight with a glossy mottled mustard-yellow and olive glaze. This figure's saying is: ”This.. is the story of my life...”. Nell Bortells (American, 1926-2011) was a key designer and sculptor for Hagen-Renaker. Born in Monrovia, California, she attended the prestigious Chouinard Art Institute in Los Angeles on a full scholarship. She is most celebrated by collectors for creating ”The Little Horribles” line of caricature monsters produced between 1958 and 1959. It famously included the ”Purple People Eater” figurine, which briefly became the best-selling piece in company history. Material: Ceramic Dimensions: Length: 1-2”; Width: 1-2”; Height: 1-2” Condition: Signs of age, use, and wear include minor shelf and surface wear. Age: 1958 - 1959 Provenance: Private Estate Shipping: $15 Standard (within Continental US) provided In-House. Shipping method is determined by item size, type, fragility and specific characteristics. Shipping and handling costs are calculated based on average carrier rates, delivery distance and packing complexity. PLEASE NOTE: All orders over $500 will require shipping insurance to be paid by the buyer. A fee of $1.50 per $100 of coverage will be added to your shipping and handling cost(s). International Bidders: Please email admin@taurusauctions.com for a shipping quote to your country. Condition Reports: Please see all photos and read entire description before requesting condition reports. Please contact us before bidding if you require additional photos or have any questions regarding condition. Email admin@taurusauctions.com for all condition reports. See all Terms and Conditions prior to bidding. 549