What's it worth? Appraisal of Florence art co. bust

Marie asks:

Hi,


I have a ceramic bust of a Spanish Lady. The words 105, Jerome, Florence Art Co. S.F.C, c 1925 are etched in the back of the bust. Her head was broken off and has been repaired. The Florence Art Company is still in business as Florence and New Italian Art Company.

Thank you,

AW says: Actually, that’s a chalkware bust with a ceramic type glaze. This San Francisco California company is famous for it’s TV lamps. In the 1950s it was purchase by the New Italian Art co. and is now known as Florence & New Italian Art Co. as you mentioned.

Unfortunately, if the head was snapped off, it has very little value today. Perhaps 15% of the values quoted below.

Circa 1925

Retail value, (if it were undamaged) $195

Wholesale: $100

Quick sale: $45

Keywords, Florence art co. chalkware bust, Spanish lady, Senoriata