Ceramic figurine of a gold prospector with pan. Artist unk.

This wooden figurine depicts a gold prospector or miner, a common folk art representation from regions with mining heritage. The detailed carving shows the character in traditional attire with a wide-brimmed hat, beard, vest, and holding a gold pan, typical of 19th to early 20th century gold rush era miners. The piece has been hand-painted with attention to detail in the clothing and facial features. Folk art carvings of miners and prospectors are particularly valued by collectors of Americana, mining memorabilia, and folk art enthusiasts. These pieces represent an important chapter in American and global history, commemorating the gold rush periods that shaped the development of many regions and communities.