When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Offered here is an original early 20th-century American cast iron paperweight depicting a curling sleeping kitten/cat, produced by the Hubley Manufacturing Company of Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
This piece features standard hollow-ground cast construction with original cold-painted cream/tan enamel and hand-painted dark tiger stripes detailing the fur and facial features. The base retains a crisp, flat ground edge with minor mold seam traces characteristic of vintage Hubley miniature novelty production. The underside retains a legacy collector/dealer paper label reading: \"$99.00 / 1920\'s Hubley Cat Orig Paint / 20 C1173-88\".
Origin & Age
Manufacturer: Hubley Manufacturing Company
Location: Lancaster, Pennsylvania, USA
Period: Circa 1920s (Art Deco / American Folk Art)
Materials & Dimensions
Condition Very Good antique condition with normal wear consistent with age and gentle handling. Retains substantial original cold paint finish with authentic distress, micro-chipping, and surface oxidation/patina in exposed areas. No cracks, chips to the iron, structural damage, or modern repainting. Untouched, original surface preserved as found.
Authenticity Assessment This piece displays key structural markers consistent with authentic 1920s Hubley production. The casting demonstrates sharp mold detail along the ears, tail, and paws with tight, well-fitted mold seams. The underlying metal shows characteristic dense, dark grey American iron, rather than the rough, pitted surface or crude wide seam lines typical of modern reproduction castings. The paint surface exhibits authentic organic micro-crazing and edge wear (cold paint on cast iron does not adhere chemically and naturally flakes over time), confirming original 1920s factory finish rather than modern acrylic over-painting.
Reference
Book Title: The Doorstop Book: An Identification and Price Guide (Also covers Hubley miniature desk novelties and paperweights)
Author: Jeanne Bertoia
Reference Note: See pages 112–118 for documented Hubley cat figures, paint finish characteristics, and foundry casting references.
Shipping calculated by USPS/UPS/FedEx based on your ZIP code.
Item Description and Condition Disclaimer
We take great care in researching, identifying, and describing each antique item to the best of our ability, drawing on available resources and hands-on examination. However, as dedicated enthusiasts rather than professional appraisers or certified experts, we cannot offer guarantees on authenticity, age, origin, or precise valuation. We strongly recommend that buyers perform their own due diligence, including consulting reference materials or experts, and thoroughly examine the accompanying photographs. These images are an essential component of our listing and depict the item\'s actual condition, including any visible flaws, wear, or imperfections consistent with its antique nature. It is the buyer\'s responsibility to inspect each lot and form their own assessment on condition, description and authenticity before purchasing. All items have signs of wear commensurate with age and usage. The lack of statement regarding condition does not imply that the item is in perfect condition or free from any and all defects. If you have any questions regarding the condition of the items, please ask and we will be more than happy to answer and/or provide additional photos as requested.
Customer Service Commitment
We truly value our customers and prioritize building lasting relationships through exceptional service. If you\'d like additional photos or have questions about an item, we\'re more than happy to provide them promptly upon request. In the event of any concerns after purchase, please reach out to us as soon as possible--certainly before submitting response--so we can work together to resolve the matter swiftly and fairly. Our utmost focus is on customer satisfaction, and we\'ll do everything in our power to ensure every transaction is smooth, transparent, and positive for you.
