Why You’ll Love It
Dating to the 1980s, this rare early wildlife sculpture by renowned IGMA Fellow Mary McGrath is a scene measuring less than an inch, in which a tiny chipmunk rises on its hind legs to investigate a vivid blue bird perched among delicate green leaves. The composition is remarkably expressive for its size. From the chipmunk’s alert posture and curling tail to the tiny bird balanced at the end of the branch, the sculpture captures a fleeting encounter in nature with warmth and extraordinary precision. McGrath’s miniature animals are celebrated for combining close observation of the natural world with a wonderful sense of personality and movement.
Early examples of her work are especially fascinating for collectors, and this signed sculpture is a rare opportunity to acquire a piece dating to the 1980s. A tiny but significant work that would be equally at home in a woodland garden scene, natural history collection, or cabinet devoted to important miniature artists.
Details
Materials: Hand-sculpted clay
Scale & Size: 1:12 scale; ⅜” tall × ⅝” wide
Condition: Excellent vintage condition
Artist: Mary McGrath, IGMA Fellow; signed
Collection: Part of the Madame ‘Y’ Collection, Japan — an elegant archive of international artisan miniatures.
Please Note this listing includes: The chipmunk and blue bird sculpture shown. Any additional figures, furniture, or styling accessories shown in photographs are for display inspiration only and are not included.
A Note About Value
Every miniature we offer has been carefully evaluated for its craftsmanship, rarity, condition, provenance, and collectibility. Many of the artisan pieces we sell are one-of-a-kind works that may never appear on the market again. While original retail prices provide an interesting historical reference, they rarely reflect decades of appreciation, the artist's legacy, or the scarcity of surviving examples.
Our pricing reflects the miniature's place within today's collector market and the years we've spent studying the artists, histories, and values that make these tiny works of art so special.
A Commitment to Research
Every miniature has a story, and uncovering it is one of our greatest passions. We carefully research each piece, but unsigned or illegible works can remain mysteries. If you can identify an artist or provide additional information, we'd be delighted to hear from you and will gladly update the listing to preserve their legacy.
