$5,000
Solomon Bell (American, 1817-1882), circa 1832. Exceedingly rare, early and important hand-modeled redware figure of a reclining whippet or greyhound atop an oblong base with multi-glaze, likely lead, copper and manganese oxide glaze. Underside is signed "Solomon Bell Winchester, VA" and dated "1832". Figure is accompanied with hand written letter dated March 12, 1956 to a Mrs. Roper describing the piece of pottery with an offer to purchase. Approximate height 7.25", width 11", depth 4.5". Provenance: Property from the Estate of Mr. John L. Roper II, Former Owner and CEO of NORSHIPCO (Norfolk Shipbuilding and Drydock Corporation), of Norfolk, Virginia. Mr. Roper collected a number of fine American antiques and art including a noteworthy early American coin collection that sold at auction in 2014. Note: The Bell whippet remains one of the most iconic and highly-prized forms in the category of Shenandoah Valley pottery. This form is documented in American Potters and Pottery by John Ramsay, New York: Tudor, c. 1947 on the frontispiece.
Auctioneer:
Ahlers & Ogletree Auction Gallery
Date:
2017-01-14
