Trade figures were not limited to life-size carvings designed to stand outside the doorways of shops; there were also smaller figures designed for indoor use as counter displays. It is not known what original purpose this figure served, although the careful depiction of high buttoned boots, narrow pant legs, and other details of costume have led to speculation that the figure was used in a men’s haberdashery shop. The exaggerated posture, with overly rounded stomach, suggests it was meant as a caricature, much as “Girl of the Period” shop figures satirized women’s fashions.

Stacy C. Hollander, "Man in Top Hat with Cane," in American Anthem: Masterworks from the American Folk Art Museum (New York: Harry N. Abrams in association with American Folk Art Museum, 2001), 356.