111: THE ONLY KNOWN MANGELS CLOWN LIGHT-UP GALLERY TARGET

As with the William Mangels Company 'Rowdy' target (lot 100 in this auction), this 'Clown' target by Mangels is believed to be the only known example of its kind. The monumental size and complexity are that of a centerpiece target anchoring a shooting gallery display. While conveyors may have had multiples of the same figure, there would only be one large light-up target like this, thus the rarity. The fixed iron mechanical box with cover would contain porcelain light sockets and bulbs, it's fronted by the thick iron silhouette figure of a clown with attached spectacles, cap and collar. As originally constructed, light bulbs would blink in the eyes when a bullseye shot activated a sensor. This very rare example was used to illustrate the book American Vernacular by Frank Maresca/Roger Ricco, Bulfinch, 2002, page 92.

The Mangels Clown Target and companion Rowdy Target above are important in terms of their size, complexity and visual presence. A much later cut steel version from the Doris Duke Mangels Gallery is pictured in Sellers' book on page 24 (Figure 1.31). Also pictured in multiple Mangels catalogs (including catalog 20 on pages 2 and 17 with 'Rowdy' target as its companion on same gallery) and on page 14 of Mangels Catalog 15 (together with Mangels 'Rowdy' target).
Displayed on a custom iron stand. This is the only example the Tuckers have seen or heard of in their 30 years of collecting.
Measures 26 x 19.5 inches, excluding stand.
Very good largely original condition, there are no issues of damage or repair, period porcelain lighting socket and bulbs present, very old dry park paint in various layers pock marked by hundreds of lead pellets and displaying an interesting patina of aged paint, oxidation and the effects of age in concert.
$30,000 - $40,000