Penguin, very large · 13.5 cm

The largest of the four brass penguins, 13.5 cm tall. At this size the wing is no longer merely suggested but carried through the body as an incised line.

The same holding contains four penguins in the same formal language in graded sizes — 5.5 · 7.5 · 10 · 13.5 cm. Body as a closed teardrop, beak as a point, wings only laid on flat. Each is available separately; all four side by side make the staircase.

The figure is cast in solid brass. It has gone lighter on the raised areas — that is how brass behaves when it is handled over years: the surface tarnishes, and where hands pass over it, it stays bright. Anyone wanting an even tone polishes it; most leave the patina that has grown, it belongs to the age of the piece.

The height is read off the tape measure and can be checked in the photographs — with a series in graded sizes that is the only figure you can rely on.

• Solid brass, cast
• Height 13.5 cm (read off the tape)
• Largest of the four sizes
• Wing executed as an incised line
• Head clearly raised, foot broadly flared
• Distinct weight
• No mark or signature

Good. Complete, no breaks. The surface has grown unevenly — matter on the flanks, bright on breast and beak. Stands firmly.