Russ Berrie & Co. 1973 Resin 5.5" Sculpture - I Love You This Much

Retro Romance: Why This 1970s Kitsch Classic Belongs in Your Vintage Décor

If your home décor vibe leans toward cozy nostalgia, mid-century whimsy, or slightly eccentric antique mall finds, you have likely locked eyes with one. We are talking about the iconic, wide-eyed, arm-stretching Russ Berrie "I Love You This Much" figurine.

First hitting store shelves in 1968, these quirky little statues became absolute staples of candy shops, card boutiques, and bedroom dressers throughout the 1970s. Officially called "Sillisculpts," these novelty items captured the heart of an entire generation.

Today, they are making a massive comeback for collectors and interior design lovers alike. Here is why this specific piece of pop-culture history deserves a spot on your shelf.

The Anatomy of an Icon: Big Eyes, Bigger Hearts

At first glance, a Sillisculpt is instantly recognizable. The classic "I Love You This Much" statue features a cartoonish, teardrop-shaped character with two defining traits:

• The Expression: Massive, bulging, highly expressive eyes paired with a joyful grin.

• The Pose: Arms flung wide open, physically demonstrating an immeasurable amount of love.

• The Base: A chunky pedestal featuring the bold, black-lettered inscription: "I LOVE YOU THIS MUCH."

• It is pure, unadulterated retro kitsch—the kind of piece that instantly injects personality into a sterile room.

Ceramic Illusion: What Are They Actually Made Of?

• While they look exactly like heavy ceramic or porcelain from afar, pick one up and you will find a surprise.

• Russ Berrie (in collaboration with Wallace Berrie) manufactured these using a molded, hard plastic resin. Advertised back then as virtually "unbreakable," this durable material is the reason so many have survived pristine for over 50 years.

Pro-Tip for Collectors: If you are hunting for an authentic vintage piece, flip it over. Original 1970s models feature a layer of green protective felt glued to the bottom. If you are incredibly lucky, you might even find one with its original gold foil maker's sticker or the cardboard hang-tag still looped around its neck!

Item Details:

• Height: 5.5 inches 

• Material:  Solid resin

• Weight: 8.1 oz.

• Color: Beige

Condition:

• Good vintage condition no breaks or cracks, minimal fade with the lettering,   

• Original sticker and green felt is present at the base indicating its authentication and date (1973)