An excellent example of an end of the day sewer tile whimsy of sorts, and an early one, late 19th century I believe. Sewer tile creations of this sort, easy to recognize my the character of the clay (and in this case the clay is especially, wonderfully craggy and the dark brown glaze richly applied), were made by factory workers, especially in and around Ohio, using leftover (hence, "end of day") clay from industrial sewer pipe production. Like the macrame baskets of sailors, and the spruce gum boxes of loggers, often these were sweetheart gifts, as I would think was likely the case here--and of course I am always delighted by the image of a factory worker sculpting something quite delicate. I don't always jump on sewer tile pieces but this one sold me immediately--excellent form (especially the shape of that heel!), surface, color, scale (I've seen a few tiny examples but this is not; perhaps it was made to hold matches), and detailing of seams, lace holes, etc. Terrific presence, too, feels singular and substantial. And a perfect fit in a lineage of folk art shoe shaped creations, from carved snuff boxes to pin cushions. (And then there are the salesman samples!)
3 7/8" x 2" t x 1 5/16" w. Excellent antique condition, no chips or any other issues at all that I can see.
You might also like
