She has one shoe, a tiny handbag, an enormous hat, and appears to be standing on a chair contemplating every decision that brought her to this moment.

Naturally, I love her.

Attributed to Spanish sculptor Juan Clara (1875–1958), this wonderfully expressive bronze figure depicts a young child standing atop an upholstered stool. One finger rests thoughtfully against her mouth while she holds a tiny shoe in the opposite hand; one foot remains booted while the other is bare.

The details are what make this piece so charming—the oversized bonnet, rumpled dress, tiny fingers and toes, dangling shoe, and beautifully modeled stool beneath her feet. From every angle she reveals another little element of the scene.

The bronze retains a wonderfully aged surface with warm golden-brown tones and areas of darker patination, surface variation and wear that give the sculpture considerable character.

At 13.5 inches tall, she’s substantial enough to stand beautifully on a mantel, bookshelf or atop a stack of antique books—and unusual enough that someone is inevitably going to ask about her.

Details:
Attributed to Juan Clara (Spanish, 1875–1958)
Toddler on a Stool
Bronze sculpture
Unsigned
Early 20th century
Overall measurements: 13.5” H × 4” W × 4” D

Antique condition with visible age-related surface wear, patina, oxidation and finish variation throughout. The piece is unsigned; attribution is based on the known Juan Clara model/form. Please review all photographs carefully for condition.