Rare Akron, Ohio Large-Sized Stoneware Basin or Foot Bath w/ Polar Bear Scene

October 26, 2019 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 353

Price Realized: $206.50

($175 hammer, plus 18% buyer's premium)

PLEASE NOTE: This result is 5 years old, and the American ceramics market frequently changes. Additionally, small nuances of color, condition, shape, etc. can mean huge differences in price. If you're interested in having us sell a similar item for you, please contact us here.

October 26, 2019 Auction Catalog

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Rare Large-Sized Stoneware Basin or Footbath with Relief Polar Bear, Sailing Ship, and Iceberg Motifs, attributed to Robinson Clay Product Co., Akron, Ohio origin, late 19th or early 20th century, with finely-molded relief design of polar bears atop icebergs on one side, the reverse with sailing ships and icebergs. Icicle motif around shoulder. Bung holes at base on opposite sides. Cobalt highlights throughout. This design was probably inspired by the Heroic Age of Antarctic exploration, which began in the late 19th century and ended roughly two decades into the 20th century. Widely-popular stories of the harrowing travels of Antarctic explorers, such as Robert Falcon Scott and Ernest Shackleton, brought images, such as that found on this basin, into mainstream culture. It is interesting to note, however, that either ignorance or artistic license was at play in the construction of this piece, as polar bears are not indigenous to Antarctica. Exceptional form. A thin 4" crack from rim. A thin 2 3/4" crack from rim. A 12 1/2" surface line to exterior, not visible on interior. A 3 1/2" X-shaped surface line to exterior, not visible on interior. Some old residue from use to interior, rim, and base. H 8 7/8" ; Diameter (across top) 16 1/4".