Vintage Emmett Kelly Jr. 'The Thinker' Clown Figurine (Professional Series)
Flambro / Flambro Imports · Collectibles & Antiques > Figurines
Era / Decade
1980s (Specifically circa 1983-1988)
Material
Hand-painted bisque porcelain with a matte finish. High-quality ceramic with soft pastel kiln-fired glazes.
Condition
Excellent to Very Good. The figurine shows no visible chips, cracks, or repairs. The matte finish is clean. Points of wear typically occur on the hat or ball, but this appears well-preserved.
Demand Level
Niche. There is a specific community of clown and circus collectors, but the general market for 80s porcelain figurines has slowed. Best for collectors of Americana.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$15.00 - $25.00 (Low: $10, Mid: $18, High: $30 with original box)
Estimated Retail Value
$45.00 - $65.00 (Original 1980s retail value adjusted for inflation)
Comparable Sales
Similar Emmett Kelly Jr. Flambro figurines consistently sell for $12-$22 on eBay. Rare poses or those with original boxes can occasionally reach $35-$40.
Description
This vintage Flambro figurine features the iconic 'Weary Willie' character portrayed by Emmett Kelly Jr. Titled 'The Thinker' from the Professional Series, it depicts the sad-faced clown in a contemplative pose, leaning against a stool with a beach ball. Hand-painted with a soft matte bisque finish, this piece captures the classic circus melancholy of the mid-20th century. Stands approximately 8-9 inches tall.
Key Features
Recognizable Emmett Kelly Jr. likeness, 'The Thinker' pose, collectible Flambro branding, 1980s nostalgia, high-detail bisque porcelain construction.
Authenticity Indicators
Should have an 'Emmett Kelly Jr.' signature printed on the base and a Flambro gold foil sticker or backstamp on the bottom. Construction and paint style are consistent with 1980s Flambro imports. High confidence.
Flaws to Note
Minimal shelf wear on the bottom of the base. No original box or COA (Certificate of Authenticity). Always check the tip of the hat and the fingers for tiny flea bites or repairs as they are fragile.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay is the best platform due to its global reach for niche collectors. Etsy is a secondary option if marketed as '80s Vintage Home Decor'. Facebook Marketplace is good for avoiding shipping risks.
Selling Tips
Use keywords like 'Weary Willie,' 'Bisque Porcelain,' and 'Circus Memorabilia.' Take photos against a solid dark background to make the pastel colors pop. Pack extremely carefully with double-boxing and bubble wrap, as bisque is brittle and easily damaged during shipping.