posted on August 3, 2002 02:15:29 PM
When I first saw this little whatever, for some reason the name "St. Francis" popped into my head. I'm not Catholic, and have only a passing acquaintance with the saints, and can't really say why I thought of him.
He is holding a bird, and I would say a dove (perhaps that's what triggered my thought?), except the bird has some black on him, but that may be okay too.
Also, the hole is his head would indicate that he is something other than a figurine...but why would a vase have an opening at such an odd angle?
Butterfiles are embossed on his robe.
The bottom is flat and unglazed; no marks, but looks like it may have been around awhile.
posted on August 3, 2002 04:50:25 PM
I also think your little item may be an incense holder. I believe St. Francis has a robe like a monks garment which is belted at the waist with a sash and he holds a bird in his outstretched hand
* http://www.romahawk.com
posted on August 3, 2002 09:29:45 PM
It might be what is called a "posy holder."
A posy holder is usually a cute figurine, with a small hole, and is designed to hold sprigs of herbs from the garden, such as lavender. I have a posy holder about the same size sitting on my kitchen window sill; my holder is a figure of a lady, which I purchased at an estate sale many years ago.
posted on August 3, 2002 09:44:14 PM
Listing it as a posy holder is a great idea! I'd also include in the description that it reminds you of St. Francis.
I have several posy holders and adore them all. They are really cute with flowers or ivy starts springing out of the openings.
