Very Rare Henry Wadsworth Longfellow Presentation Stoneware Inkwell, Signed and Dated "Compliments of L.A. Smith / Metropolis / March 4 1882," Illinois origin, 1882, wheel-thrown inkwell with central ink reservoir and exterior wall with highly unusual pierced-work geometric designs. Border of inkwell embellished with crimped edge and outstanding applied stag horn decoration. Surface covered in a dark-brown Albany slip and incised with the inscription "Compliments of L.A. Smith To / Henry W. Longfellow / Feb 27. 1882 / Ink Stand". Underside incised "Metropolis / March 4, 1882". This inkwell was made to commemorate the 75th birthday of the popular American poet, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1807-1882), an event which was widely-celebrated throughout the country. The inscription on the inkwell indicates that the vessel was actually made for Longfellow and intended to be given to him. One can think of few better gifts to present to a writer than an inkwell. Sadly, however, Longfellow would die just twenty days after this piece was made. It is presumed that the object never reached Longfellow's hands. The 1880 Federal Census lists the inkwell's maker as Louis A. Smith, born about 1861, and occupation as "Works in Pottery", in Metropolis, Massac, Illinois. The town of Metropolis is located just forty-two miles from Anna, Illinois. The whimsical nature of this piece and heavily-inscribed surface is reminiscent of Anna Pottery products, and there may have been some influence on Louis' work by the Kirkpatricks of Anna, Illinois. Outstanding folk art form with wonderful subject matter related to American literary and popular history. Two losses to rim of central ink reservour. Tiny chips and nicks to crimping of outer rim. H 3 1/4" ; Diameter (at base) 3 1/8".
