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Comstock Wooden Saloon Barmaid "Big Bertha" [85808]

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Casino and Gambling Start Price:250.00 USD Estimated At:500.00 - 1,500.00 USD
Comstock Wooden Saloon Barmaid  Big Bertha    [85808]
SOLD
275.00USD+ (68.75) buyer's premium + applicable fees & taxes.
This item SOLD at 2023 Aug 26 @ 13:39UTC-7 : PDT/MST
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Rare Find! "Big Bertha" from the now closed, Comstock Casino, Reno, NV. Iconic Western Saloon Lady or Barmaid Bertha stands 5 feet tall with a buxom figure, carved of wood. She is a hand painted lady, with vibrant red lipstick, adorned in lavender and bows with a natural patina (and some chipping due to her maturity) One thumb is cracked, but not broken--just a little arthritis from years of carrying a heavy drink tray (tray not included). Bertha is a woman of smaller stature so she stands on a round wooden pedestal, which is missing a chunk, undoubtedly the result of too many closing shifts dealing with drunkards who couldn't keep their hands to themselves. Berta is still is steady on her feet and stands proud on her own two feet with an air of unbroken dignity, despite the many drinks she's shared with her patrons over the years, as evidenced by her rosy cheeks and the lines of experience on her face. Every gentleman who crosses her path is immediately drawn to Bertha, whose intense, unblinking eyes, seem to look right into their souls.
More than once we've had to escort a stranger off the premises after Big Bertha caught their eyes wandering..(though they can hardly be blamed for noticing her impressive cleavage) They just don't make women like Bertha anymore.
Please inspect. 14" W. x 62" H. x 15" D. Artist carved signature on reverse of torso, with '78 date. Artist's name not legible. The Comstock completed construction and opened in 1978 so this piece was part of the original decor and most likely commissioned artwork specifically for the western-themed casino. Reno Nevada 1978