Can anyone tell me about this moving window display(?)

I finally broke down & bought this window display? from my neighbor.
I thought he looked like the little person who was the only person who was trademarked - I think he did ads for a hotel, but I can't remember for sure.
This piece was electrical - but it looks like the motor was removed - and his head would turn, that caused his thumbs up arm to move.
But with no motor & 1 arm broken, is this still collectible?
Any idea of its age?
Or what type of business he tried to attract the attention of passer-bys for?
I paid $50 for him because he's one of the most unusual pieces I've seen in awhile!
Ok, and he's 34 inches tall.
Thank you for any help with this guy!

 

This is the one the guys from American Pickers found!

 

I'd say this is a good mystery item for a $50 admission fee.

Try asking here ...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/animatronicshows

 

Chinese restaurant or laundry?

 

Thank you!

 

I would say you are profiling, but I hought it was a bell boy/bell boy cap!!

 

To me he looks like a workman and the missing arm held the product that he likes. A can of paint or brush would look nice.

Maybe he's a butcher and held a cleaver?

Wall paper hanger and a brush?

A baker and a pie?

???