Cigar Store Figure: "Punch" 1935 - 1942

Raymond Neumann's 1935-1942 watercolor painting, "Cigar Store Figure: 'Punch'", depicts a whimsical figure of a jester, a traditional symbol of amusement and entertainment. The figure, likely referencing the well-known character Punch, is dressed in a vibrant red and yellow costume, and stands atop a small wooden platform with wheels. Neumann captures the charming details of a traditional cigar store figure, a popular form of advertising in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The inscription, "On the Job Since 1865," adds an interesting historical element, possibly indicating the date of the original figure's creation or a playful nod to the longevity of the character. Neumann's realistic depiction of the figure and its whimsical design make it a delightful example of American folk art.