Exceedingly Rare and Important American Redware Figural Cat-with-Mouse Flowerpot
March 24, 2018 Stoneware Auction
Lot #: 333
Exceedingly Rare Figural Cat-with-Mouse Flowerpot with Original Cold-Painted Surface, American, possibly Pennsylvania or Southern U.S., circa 1850-1885, wheel-thrown form sculpted in the figure of a cat with applied features, seated on a slab base, holding a mouse to its mouth. Incised details to face and paws. Figure's back is carved open to serve as a flowerpot, with original drain hole pierced in the cat's rear end. Surface covered in original black and silver paint decoration to cat's coat, yellow paint to eyes, and red paint to mouth. This outstanding sculpture is believed to be unique and carries strong folk art appeal in its subject matter, body attitude, facial expression, form, and surface. The stylized, bent-legged stance of the cat is reminiscent of the work of such American folk art masters as Anthony Bacher and Wilhelm Schimmel. The subject matter is virtually unheard of in American redware, although an iconic flowerpot with the applied figure of a cat hunting a bird, made by Absalom Bixler of Lancaster, PA, is known. Provenance: Purchased by the consignor in North Carolina, found with remnants of dirt in the interior base. Losses to ears. Otherwise excellent condition with minor paint wear. H 7" ; L 5 3/8".
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