Wooden indian cigar statue

Today we talk about Wooden indian cigar statue.

Contents

• Overview of Wooden Indian Cigar Statues
• Types of Wooden Indian Cigar Statues
• Popular Sizes and Styles
• Materials Used in Wooden Indian Cigar Statues
• Care and Maintenance
• Where to Buy Wooden Indian Cigar Statues
• Decorating with Wooden Indian Cigar Statues
• Pricing Guide for Wooden Indian Cigar Statues
• Collecting Wooden Indian Cigar Statues
• Gift Ideas Featuring Wooden Indian Cigar Statues
• Community & Enthusiasts
• Conclusion

Overview of Wooden Indian Cigar Statues

As an avid cigar aficionado, the allure of wooden Indian cigar statues has always captivated me. These statues, originating from the mid-19th century, served as marketing tools for cigar shops, drawing customers in with their vibrant designs and deep-rooted cultural significance. Each time I see one, I’m reminded of the enduring connection between artistry and commerce within the cigar industry; about 40,000 wooden Indian cigar statues were produced in the U.S. from the late 1800s through the mid-1900s, making them a collectible that tells a unique story.

Characteristics of Wooden Indian Cigar Statues

Certain features define wooden Indian cigar statues, making them distinct and memorable. Here are the key characteristics I’ve discovered:

• Heightened Detail: Most statues are hand-carved with intricate adornments, showcasing skilled craftsmanship. For example, high-quality pieces often have a thickness of around 1-2 inches.
• Vibrant Colors: Statues are typically painted with non-toxic colors that are UV resistant. This keeps them vibrant for years, which is something I admire.
• Cultural References: Many statues depict Native American figures, symbolizing respect and homage toward indigenous cultures, enhancing their appeal in both cigar shops and collections.

Types of Wooden Indian Cigar Statues

Hand-Carved Wooden Indian Statues

Hand-carved wooden Indian cigar statues are the pinnacle of originality and artistry. Statues meticulously crafted by artisans can sometimes take as long as 300 hours to produce. The attention to detail, from the feathers in the headdress to the expressive eyes, tells me that each piece carries a soul.

Vintage Wooden Indian Statues

Vintage wooden Indian cigar statues, dating from roughly 1910 to 1950, are especially valuable. These can sell for anywhere between $300 to over $1,000, depending on their condition and history. I often find myself enchanted by these pieces that remind me of a different era in cigar retail.

Popular Sizes and Styles

Common Dimensions for Wooden Indian Statues

Regarding size, wooden Indian cigar statues vary greatly. I’ve observed the following dimensions in my quests:

• Small: Around 3-3.5 feet tall, suitable for home displays.
• Medium: Approximately 4-5 feet, often used as focal points in shops or lounges.
• Large: Standing 6 feet or taller, these require more space and serve as grand statements in cigar shops.

Different Artistic Styles in Wooden Indian Statues

The artistic styles of these statues vary widely. Of the styles I’ve come across, realistic representations often reflect traditional Native American culture, while abstract designs offer modern interpretative flair. Statues range from more life-like portrayals to whimsical designs that captivate the viewer with their creativity.

Materials Used in Wooden Indian Cigar Statues

Types of Wood Used for Carving

The choice of wood directly impacts the quality and longevity of wooden Indian cigar statues. Here’s what I’ve noted about the common types of wood used:

• Pine: Widely used for budget-friendly options, costing about $50-$150.
• Cedar: Known for its aroma and insect-repelling qualities, priced around $100-$300.
• Mahogany: A premium choice, often used in high-end pieces, ranging from $300 to upwards of $1,500.

Finishes and Protective Coatings

I’ve found that high-quality finishes like polyurethane or lacquer serve a dual purpose: enhancing the visual appeal while protecting against wear and environmental damage. Properly fining and sealing can extend the life of wooden Indian cigar statues significantly, often by decades.

Care and Maintenance

Cleaning Your Wooden Indian Cigar Statue

Cleaning should be part of any serious collector’s routine. I recommend using a soft, dry cloth to dust the statue weekly. For deeper cleans, a solution of mild soap and warm water works wonders. It may only need this treatment twice a year to preserve its natural beauty.

Preventing Damage to Wood Statues

To extend the life of wooden Indian cigar statues, I ensure they are not placed in direct sunlight, as prolonged exposure can fade the colors. Maintaining a stable humidity level of around 40-50% is also pivotal in preventing warping.

Where to Buy Wooden Indian Cigar Statues

Online Retailers

When it comes to purchasing wooden Indian cigar statues, online stores provide a vast selection. Websites like eBay, Etsy, and specialized collectible stores often feature unique pieces. I always check the seller ratings and get an assurance of return policies before making a purchase.

Local Shops and Galleries

Local antique shops and galleries can be treasure troves for finding wooden Indian cigar statues. I’ve often walked into stores and stumbled upon hidden gems that resonate with me. Sometimes the stories vendors share can add more value than the statue itself!

Decorating with Wooden Indian Cigar Statues

Best Places to Display Your Statue

Finding the right spot for your statue is crucial. In my living room, I place my statue near the cigar humidor, creating a thematic corner that showcases my love for cigars and history. A well-lit display can highlight its features beautifully.

Complementary Decor Styles for Cigar Statues

Wooden Indian cigar statues fit well in rustic settings or cigar lounges with dark woods and leather furnishings. Combining them with other vintage items, like old tobacco tins or antique cigar boxes, enhances the room’s character.

Pricing Guide for Wooden Indian Cigar Statues

Factors Affecting Price

Prices for wooden Indian cigar statues can vary between $50 and $1,500. Factors influencing this pricing include age, craftsmanship, materials, and specific features like unique carvings or historical significance. I’ve learned to appreciate that a well-made statue can be more than just a decoration—it can be an investment.

What to Expect at Different Price Points

Understanding what you get at different price points is essential for any buyer. For example, at $100, you might find a basic hand-painted statue, while at $500 or more, you will likely encounter artisan quality, complete with fine details and richer wood materials.

Collecting Wooden Indian Cigar Statues

Identifying Authenticity

As I built my collection, learning to identify authentic wooden Indian cigar statues became important. I now look for characteristics such as unique carvings that indicate handcrafting and verifying age through features indicative of certain historical periods, like the types of paints used.

Building a Curated Collection

Building a curated collection around a theme—be it geographical styles, sizes, or historical periods—enriches the overall experience. Personally, my focus has been on collecting pieces from specific decades to understand their role in cigar culture history better.

Gift Ideas Featuring Wooden Indian Cigar Statues

Occasions for Gifting

Wooden Indian cigar statues make memorable gifts for birthdays, holidays, or retirement. These statues convey appreciation for cigar culture, capturing a little piece of history that a fellow cigar enthusiast will cherish forever.

Accompanying Decorative Items

When gifting a wooden Indian cigar statue, consider pairing it with cigar-related accessories. Items like personalized cigar labels or hand-rolled cigars can make the gift more meaningful and create a nice presentation.

Community & Enthusiasts

Online Forums and Collecting Groups

Joining online forums dedicated to cigar culture and wooden Indian cigar statues has significantly enhanced my knowledge. Websites and platforms like Reddit have active discussions where enthusiasts share tips, showcase their collections, and trade information.

Events and Gatherings

When I attend gatherings, whether local cigar events or larger expos, the excitement is palpable. These events provide opportunities to meet experts, explore various wooden Indian cigar statues, and sometimes participate in auctions!

Conclusion

Final Thoughts on Wooden Indian Cigar Statues

Through my journey in understanding wooden Indian cigar statues, I’ve come to appreciate them as more than just decorative pieces. They embody a blend of art, history, and culture that continues to thrive within the cigar community. For enthusiasts like myself, these statues serve as a beautiful reminder of the rich heritage of cigar making and the stories surrounding it.

FAQ

Why do cigar shops have Indian statues?

Cigar shops have wooden Indian statues to attract customers and symbolize the historical bond between indigenous culture and the tobacco trade. Statues create a nostalgic atmosphere associated with cigars.

Are cigar store Indians worth anything?

Cigar store Indians can be quite valuable, especially vintage ones. Prices can range from $100 for basic pieces to over $1,500 for rare, high-quality statues.

What is the meaning of the wooden Indian statue?

Wooden Indian statues symbolize respect for Native American culture and serve as historical markers of the cigar industry’s roots.

How old are cigar store Indians?

Cigar store Indians have origins tracing back to the mid-1850s, making them over 150 years old, with many vintage pieces providing a glimpse into the past.