Outstanding and rare trio of 1910 statues by Italian sculptor Paulo Testi.  These are the original 1910 chalk statues, dipped in a gilt coating, and not the more common 1950s bronze recasts often seen at auction; this is an exceptionally difficult grouping of baseball figural pieces that are rarely seen together in one place.  The collection includes: 1) Catcher: Just shy of 9" in height, sculpture pictures a catcher, crouching in position, hands on his knees with catcher's mask at his feet.  Testi's name and the 1910 date are carved into the base, the entire piece weighing in at approximately 2.75 lbs.  Excellent condition with no visible chipping or heavy scuffs.  2) Batter: Approximately 9 1/4" in height, statue depicts a batter in his stance, bat at ready.  Somewhat lighter than the other statues, the batter weighs in at about 1.11 lbs, and also appears to be in EX condition, the bat with a slight bend, but no visible weakness or signs of repair. 3) Pitcher:  Approximately 9 3/4" statue depicting a pitcher at the beginning of his delivery, preparing to finish his windup.  Excellent condition, no signs of chipping or repairs, weighs slightly above 2 1/4 lbs.  All three pieces have a wonderful patina, creating a black and copper-colored finish.  Three very scarce and desirable statues in total, rarely seen together, much less offered this way at auction. 

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