Mini Panda on Circus Drum Porcelain Limoges Box

A mini panda balances on a round circus drum, looking quite pleased to be in the center ring. The drum base opens as the box, and this small porcelain piece was painted by hand and made in Limoges, France.

The Smallest Act in the Ring

Circus animals perched on drums are a classic big top image, and putting a panda in the spotlight gives it an extra dose of charm. The bear and its round drum make a tidy little composition, each brushed in by hand so the finish varies a little from box to box.

Ringside Seats

Its small scale lets it slip onto a crowded curio shelf or a desk corner without taking over. Many collectors group it with elephants, seals, clowns and ringmasters for a full circus parade, while others keep it with their bears, both panda and teddy.

Who Will Cheer for It

• A panda fan who follows every zoo cub announcement
• A friend who remembers the circus coming to town each summer
• Anyone building a bear or wild animal collection in hand-painted porcelain from Limoges, France

It also marks a family trip to a zoo with a panda exhibit, a fine way to remember the day everyone pressed against the glass to watch the bears.