Very Rare Glazed Redware Figure of a Dog, attributed to Solomon Bell, Strasburg, VA, third quarter 19th century, hand-modeled seated dog on base, with impressed eyes and incised details to face, ears, and paws. An unusual impressed collar and chain extends around the neck and down the back of the figure, reminiscent of the impressed chains and collars found of Bell family molded spaniels. Base is decorated with impressed flowerheads around the border as well as impressed decoration extending underneath the dog. This design consists of an incised stem with impressed oval leaves, ending in a large flower blossom composed of impressed circular petals and an impressed flowerhead at center. Surface covered in a rust-colored glaze comprised of lead, augmented with iron or manganese. This dog features a body form and leg structure characteristic of Solomon Bell redware animals, as specified by Shenandoah pottery authority, Dr. H.E. Comstock, on p. 232-233 of Pottery of the Shenandoah Valley Region. The figure is particularly similar in form to a pair of cats, pictured on p. 232 of this book. The distinctive eight-petaled flowerheads impressed around the border are also identical to those found on the middle of the bases of the cat figures. Hand-modeled animals with firm attributions to the Bell family are seldom found. Provenance: Originally from a home in the Timberville, VA area. Loss to front of base and tail. Two other small base chips. Some glaze wear to ears and muzzle. H 3 7/8".
