Classic figure- age and origin

Thanks. I kind of thought I had seen that, but when I did a speedy check of the OP, didn't spot it. So that's settled, but I'm still not sure what color it is in places that are not gilt.

 

Thanks,that was interesting to read.I will try and find a local lab and get more information. Apparently you can also contact some universities.

 

@Bronwen Thanks for the help and comments. Anyway for your intrest I tried to take some better photos (unfortunately my phone’s camera is no that great) of some
of the damaged/dented areas were the gilt was lost. I will let the forum know if I manage to get any further information on this.

 

The damaged grey metal areas also makes these grey lines/streaks on white paper. Noted it when I was moving it around to take photos.

 

That does look like lead. You may be able to find a test kit for home use that can identify lead on surfaces. They have been developed since the danger of lead-based paint has been recognized. There are other kits for lead in drinking water, but the surface test would be more applicable in this instance.

 

The white metal "writes", so my guess is either lead or high lead content. The pot metal they used for toys in the 1930s was a lead and antimony blend as often as not. I wouldn't take bets either way.

 

Thank you. Never considered that there
might be a home test kit,will look into that

 

Thanks for the reply. Didn’t know about the toys. Also had to
check the meaning of ‘antimony’

 

New pix much better for color. Certainly has a leaden look. Wonder whether it leaves streaks on paper because the metal itself is so soft or because there is some kind of oxidation on the surface rubbing off.

What did you have in mind as 'honest age'? I can imagine that she might be antique, but doubt she would qualify as an antiquity. In my own collecting have had to be wary of confusing condition with age.

 

I didn’t initially consider ‘some kind of oxidation’ so I will think about it. I definitely thought ‘antique ‘ but in truth I was wondering if not maybe an ‘antiquity’.. I do hear what you say regarding condition and age!