Rare 1960s Bronze Russ Wallace Berrie Figurine Statue I Love You 20th Century

Produced in bronze it distinguishes itself as highly unusual and rare, as the mass-market collectibles of this design from the 20th Century were manufactured from resin or plastic and I can find no other bronze figures. The statue depicts a cheerful, round-faced person with arms wide open in an exaggerated gesture of affection. It stands on a rectangular base that is inscribed with the phrase, "I Love You This Much."

From my research it seems that this model is one of the most sought after, but with this one being produced from bronze it finds itself in a league of its own. Perhaps made as a commemorative piece to signify the product, or maybe commissioned as a one-off or in an extremely limited edition for family & friends?