Savannah, Georgia

Pennsylvania Painted Chalkware Cat, c. 1875

A Pennsylvania painted chalkware cat, circa second half of the 19th century.

These pieces, usually painted by German-American folk artisans from Lancaster to Philadelphia, were made to be a more accessible household ornament than expensive Staffordshire ceramics. They are rarer today due to their fragile gypsum composition. Later in the 19th century and into the 20th century these figures became popular as carnival prizes.

Materials

Chalkware (painted gypsum composition)

Dimensions

14"W x 9"D x 6.5"H

Condition

Small chips and paint losses. Good overall.