Vintage 1980s Leather Hippopotamus – Liberty London Style – Handcrafted English Leather Hippo

Details

A wonderfully characterful large vintage leather hippopotamus, reportedly purchased in London in the mid-1980s.

This impressive hand-crafted figure measures approximately 47 cm long × 30 cm high × 20 cm wide and weighs approximately 2.175 kg.

The hippopotamus is constructed from richly patinated dark brown stained leather and has an exceptionally expressive open mouth with four prominent ivory-coloured teeth, individually formed ears and eyes, detailed nostrils and a small leather tail.


The construction, material, modelling and period are strongly reminiscent of the celebrated leather animals produced by Omersa in England and historically retailed by Liberty of London.

According to the original auction provenance, this particular hippopotamus was purchased in London in the mid-1980s by an Iberia airline pilot.

There is no surviving manufacturer’s label or Liberty label, and it is therefore being offered as a vintage leather hippopotamus in the manner of Liberties of London


Condition

Good vintage condition with a rich, naturally developed patina. There are scratches, rubbing, colour variation and signs of age and use, particularly to the undersides of the feet. These are consistent with a leather object believed to be approximately 40 years old and contribute considerably to its character.

Please study all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description.

Dimensions:
Length: approx. 47 cm
Height: approx. 30 cm
Width: approx. 20 cm
Weight: approx. 2.175 kg

Period: Reportedly acquired mid-1980s
Origin: Purchased in London, England
Material: Stained leather
Liberty London; currently unconfirmed

A striking piece of vintage British-style leatherwork and an unusual decorative object for a library, study, office or eclectic interior.