What is the symbolism of the clay figurine in the novel, If Nobody Speaks of Remarkable Things?

Michael's brother's clay figure symbolizes trauma. When the brother first acquires the figurine, it is a source of curiosity and inspiration. However, after the accident, the figurine is broken. When Michael leaves the figure with the narrator, it reminds her of the summer she lived in the city, and the events and mood surrounding this time. The figure physically connects her to the tragedy she witnessed that summer and to what the brother suffered as a result.