very unique and exceptionally rare early 20th century american industrial "nubian" brand paint and varnish desk or table promotional figure paperweight designed and fabricated by or for the nubian paint and varnish company, chicago, il. the diminutive advertising figure is comprised of cast plaster with a hand-applied polychromatic enameled finish. the company's name is lightly incised around the figure's turban. nubian paint and varnish was founded in 1879 with offices and warehouses located at 900 north 51st avenue, chicago, il. the company later moved its operations to 1856 n. leclaire avenue in 1919. nubian was later acquired by the glidden paint company. measures approximately 5 x 5 x 5 1/2 inches.