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Object of curiosity.
Pharmacy sign.
Pharmacy signboard.
Also called japer or gaping.
Often representing a man, an "exotic" person always with his mouth open.
First appeared in the late 16th century as a sign used outside pharmacy windows in the Netherlands.
This figurehead was always displayed with his mouth open, or with his tongue out. (Sometimes with a pill on his tongue).
Today, few remain in public view since they are often stolen.
Gapers have facial expressions ranging from innocent to humorous to suffering.
They take on various appearances.
Here it is a madman, a political figure of high importance who had the ear of the king.
Their individual designs would be specific to the specialties of pharmacy.
Today, these heads have entered museums or private collections. In plaster
Dimensions
H: 27 cm 15 X 15.30 cm
Ref: EEY071RISN