Chalkware is plaster of Paris that has been poured into a mold of a figurine and is then painted and put out on display to be admired. This art form has been around since the late 18th century. It was believed to have originated in Italy to make biblical figures for moderate income people to purchase for their homes. Chalkware is the more affordable way to make figurines originally formed in porcelain available to everyday citizens. The making of chalkware spread to Germany and eventually the United States. It made a reappearance during the great depression where it was given away as carnival prizes in forms like Kewpie dolls.
Chalkware comes in a variety of pieces. In Europe the Madonna is the post popular form. In the United States animal figurines like dogs, cats, farm animals, Easter rabbits and Santas are more commonly found. These are usually highly detailed and make for desirable pieces of art to be put on display in one's home. Here are some pictures of antique chalkware Santas which I use for inspiration when creating my chalkware. I want mine to look old so I antique and my Santas to look like actual old ones.
