Cortese Capodimonte Porcelain Figurine Shoemaker Scene Italy 1963 Signed 9 in

Condition: Used

Condition Notes: There is a visible break on the tip of the thumb on the raised hand, and the string was reattached with glue.Some small paint rubs and surface marks consistent with age, especially around the hand and base.No structural cracks or repairs to the main body of the piece.

Origin: European

Antique: No

Signed: Yes

Material: Porcelain

Year Manufactured: 1963

Subject: shoe maker

Colour: Multicoloured

Vintage: Yes

Brand: Capodimonte

Type: Figurine

Original/Licensed Reproduction: Original

Theme: Italian

Production Style: Art Pottery

Production Technique: Pottery

Finish: Matte

Handmade: Yes

Country of Origin: Italy

This item is a finely detailed Cortese Capodimontestyle porcelain figurine, depicting an elderly shoemaker at work, threading a leather shoe with string amidst a cluttered workbench. Signed and marked on the base with a crowned "N" and “Cortese”, the figurine was crafted in 1963 and captures the charm of traditional Italian craftsmanship.

The sculpture showcases the shoemaker seated on a rustic stool surrounded by tools of the trade, with realistic detailing in his expression, clothing, and the various cobbler accessories scattered around the base. The piece embodies the narrative artistry typical of Capodimonte figures, celebrating scenes of everyday life with emotional depth and exceptional technique.

Product Details:

• Artist: Cortese

• Style: Capodimonte

• Country of Origin: Italy

• Year: 1963

• Height: Approx. 9 in

• Weight: 1.68 kg

• Material: Handpainted porcelain

• Markings: Blue “N” under crown (Capodimontestyle), signed Cortese, handnumbered

Design Highlights:

• Highly expressive facial features and hand gestures

• Shoemaker depicted midtask, threading a leather shoe with real string

• Detailed wooden workbench covered in tools, thread, nails, and leather scraps

• Intricate tilelike sculpted base with subtle gold accents

• Realistic texturing on apron, clothing folds, and cobbler’s tools

Condition:
Worn condition.

• There is a visible break on the tip of the thumb on the raised hand, and the string was reattached with glue.

• Some small paint rubs and surface marks consistent with age, especially around the hand and base.

• No structural cracks or repairs to the main body of the piece.

About Cortese & Capodimonte Tradition:
Capodimonte porcelain originated in Naples, Italy, in the 18th century and is renowned for its detailed, expressive figurines and floral designs. Though this piece is from the 1960s, the traditional methods and styles were preserved by later artists like Cortese, who carried on the Capodimonte legacy. These figurines often depicted tradespeople, family scenes, or historical figures, making them beloved by collectors for their storytelling and lifelike realism.

Why Choose This Piece?

• Signed, handpainted vintage Italian artistry

• Tells a nostalgic story of oldworld craftsmanship

• Ideal for collectors of Capodimonte or midcentury European porcelain

• Substantial display piece with excellent shelf presence