Redware Girl-Reading-Book Bank

January 30, 2010 Stoneware Auction

Lot #: 32

Price Realized: $2,300.00

($2,000 hammer, plus 15% buyer's premium)

PLEASE NOTE: This result is 14 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.

January 30, 2010 Auction Catalog

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Extremely Rare Redware Bank in the Form of a Girl Reading a Book, Pennsylvania origin, 19th century, hand-modeled bank in the form of a girl seated in a large chair, reading a book. The girl may be a depiction of Alice from the famous book Alice in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll. The girl features applied and incised pigtails and incised details to face, blouse, and shoes, her crossed feet resting on an ottoman with incised wavy line design. Chair is fashioned with ornately-carved, padded arms and a cushioned and buttoned back, embellished with a molded rose design along the top edge. Bank rests on a rounded base with an incised wavy line along the edge. Surface covered in a clear lead glaze. Slot in reverse of chair, along with a highly unusual glazed redware disk, sealed with wax, which allows the coins to be removed without damaging the bank. A truly remarkable bank in size, form, condition, and attention to detail. The very rare inclusion of an opening allowing the coins to be removed without damaging the bank suggests its importance to the maker or owner. Provenance: Christie's Sale of the Seamen's Bank Collection, March 13, 1991. Near mint condition with minor wear. H 8" ; Length 5".