AboutBruce W. Zubee Expertise I can answer any questions regarding antique carousel horses, menagerie figures and any type of carousel component. I can also answer questions regarding other antique wooden horses.
Experience Over thirty years experience in the restoration, sale and appraisal of antique carousel figures other carousel components and related items
Organizations National Carousel Assn.
Publications www.carousels.com, Carousel Times Magazine
Currently Editor/Publisher of Carousels.com and CarouselStores.com Consultant to the New England Carousel Museum
Expert: Bruce W. Zubee Date: 6/17/2008 Subject: Carved wooden horse
Question QUESTION: My sister passed away a couple of years ago leaving me a wooden carved carousel horse. He is decked out in a cavalry saddle etc.He is very large. His head comes off with a large wood peg, as does his tail. I would love to repaint him and display him, but I hesitate because I do not wish to harm his value and history. How can I tell what I have? Are there markings I should look for? My sister believed he was very valuable but that is all the info I have on him Help!! Thank you for your time..Kim
ANSWER: Because the head and tail come off I'll have to say, even without seeing a photo that this is a simple imported knock-off. These have no value to a collector. If you would like to send a photo I can probably tell you what country it came from but it's very doubtful that your piece has much value.
Bruce Zubee
Publisher
Carousels.com
bruce@carousels.com
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QUESTION: Do these horses have any markings on them to help Identify them?? I will get a pic to you when I can..Thanks for your help..KT
Answer No. there are no markings that identify authentic carousel horses other than their complete "style". Each carver or carving company had it's own unique style. We do have a "buyer's guide" that includes some helpful tips on what to look for in a carved wooden horse. You can find it here: http://www.carousels.com/buyers_guide.php
