A rare find, for sure. He is made of clay and is an Art Pottery piece. His face is a matte glaze while his hat & ribbed shirt are glossy. He's making a cheeky kissy face. From my research, he was probably made in Japan. There are no maker's marks. About 6.15 tall & 5 at it's widest point. 👀 There is a small glaze chip near the bottom edge of the wall pocket (what would be the character's left shoulder). See picture. He can be used as table vase or as a Wall Pocket (Wall Vase). Usually, flowers would be placed into the wall pocket (real or ). Some simply collect Wall Pockets & display them. It can also hold everyday objects like art pencils or paint brushes. The wall pocket can hold water. It has been washed inside & out but the inside is not entirely clean because it has been used to hold water & flowers before.
Daily Cleaning: Use a soft brush or damp cloth to gently wipe away dirt. Avoid harsh chemicals. For mesh areas, use diluted mild detergent and a soft brush.
Drying: Air dry in a cool, shaded place after cleaning. Avoid direct sunlight or high heat, which can cause fading and glue deterioration.
Storage: Stuff with paper to maintain shape when not in use. Store in a dry, ventilated area to prevent mold. Rotate between multiple pairs to extend lifespan.
Usage Notes: Designed for basketball. Not recommended for hiking, long-distance running, or other specialized sports where different performance features are required.
The item meets the description on the website. The materials feel sturdy and the finish looks well made. It’s a solid choice for everyday use.