Exceptional Large-Sized Pennsylvania Redware Lion Inkstand Signed "Adam Schoenewald"

Spring 2023 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 112

Price Realized: $4,200.00

($3,500 hammer, plus 20% buyer's premium)

PLEASE NOTE: The American ceramics market frequently changes, often dramatically. 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.

Spring 2023 Auction Catalog

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Outstanding Glazed Redware Lion-Form Inkstand, Inscribed "SOLIDE, / O. / GLORIA." and "Adam : Schoenewald ,/ 1865," Paupack Township, Wayne County, PA origin, 1865, hand-modeled figure of a lion with incised details and extruded "coleslaw" mane and tail, standing atop a stepped plinth, incised "SOLIDE, / O. / GLORIA." The figure is outfitted with a delicately-modeled belt around its waist, carrying two applied rings with crosshatched surfaces, carrying a wheel-thrown inkwell and sander. The face includes dotted eyebrows, following the tradition of Pennsylvania redware animal sculpture, and is fashioned with large vent holes in the ears in the manner of the Bells and Anthony Bacher. The surface is covered in a heavy lead glaze and the underside is incised with the signature, "Adam : Schoenewald, / 1865," surrounded by four impressed faux screwheads. This combined sculpture and inkwell is noteworthy for its remarkable attention to detail, seen in its buckled belt, finely-carved toes and claws, applied hair on the hock joints, and an applied dewclaw on one reverse leg. The inscription on the base, "SOLIDE / O. / GLORIA," loosely translates to "TO GOD BE THE GLORY." Born in Germany about 1793, little is known of Schoenewald's production, although his talent is undeniable. A lead-and-manganese-glazed redware jar, bearing the stamp, "ADAM : SCHOENEWALD," was sold in Crocker Farm's July 19, 2014 auction, lot 84. Among the finest American figural inkstands or wells known, this work combines subject matter, size, and exemplary craftsmanship. Provenance: Purchased from James Glazer in 1991. A large area of restoration to tail. Areas of restoration to one ring (well or sander holder). A restored 1" chip to belt. Some minor surface wear to lion. A 1" chip and minor chip to inkwell. A 1/2" chip to sander. L 8" ; W 4 1/2" ; H 7".