Outstanding and Very Rare Glazed Redware Figure of a Dog with Coleslaw Fur, attributed to Anthony Weis Bacher, Adams County, PA, Winchester, VA, or Thurmont, MD, circa 1855-1885, large-sized, hand-modeled figure of a dog with heavily-applied extruded clay fur, circular balled clay eyes, protruding tongue, and incised details to muzzle and paws. Figure is seated above a raised geometric design upon a rectangular base with severed corners. Surface covered in a reddish-brown lead-and-manganese glaze. This outstanding folk sculpture bears several characteristics of animal figures produced by Pennsylvania and Shenandoah Valley master potter, Anthony Weis Bacher, including its glaze, profuse application of clay "coleslaw" fur, protruding tongue, and orb-like eyes. Two Bacher bear figures illustrated in H.E. Comstock's, The Pottery of the Shenandoah Valley Region, exhibit all of these features. Perhaps most intriguing about this figure is its distinctive stance, which is highly reminiscent of the iconic Bacher goat currently in the collection of the American Folk Art Museum in New York City. The posture of the goat, with its outstretched front legs and partially raised rump, is perhaps best described by H.E. Comstock in his book, The Pottery of the Shenandoah Valley Region, as "raising himself from a reclining position" Comstock, p. 169). A similar sense of motion is conveyed in this dog. A wonderful example of American folk sculpture, and finest Bacher dog to come to auction in years. Literature: For other Bacher animal figures, see Comstock, The Pottery of the Shenandoah Valley Region, p. 167, 169, and 179. The figure itself survives in remarkable, very fine condition with minimal wear. Reglued 2" long section to base on reverse, with small chip out of surface of base. Minor losses to coleslaw and very minor surface wear. H 6 1/4" ; L 6 3/4".
