hand-built porcelain with underglazes, china paint, and lusters, is set on a custom walnut base. The measurements are 7 1/4 inches by 12 3/4 inches by 12 3/4 inches. This piece was shown at the Renwick Gallery of the National Museum of American Art by the Smithsonian. From Cavanagh's private collection. His attention to detail and intricate carving and painting are quite remarkable. The base is approximately 6 3/8" x 5 1/8" and the piece is approximately 3" high. It is signed, titled and dated on the solid walnut base. Trained as a goldsmith and bronze sculptor, Cavanagh carved a very small number of these whimsical, one-off hippo sculptures in the 1970s-80's. You can find more about Cavanagh online if you do not know of him. The piece is in excellent condition.

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