Early 20th Century Chalkware Bank, Sitting Cocker Spaniel, circa 1930-40s

Collectibles : Banks : Chalk Ware

 

This could be your new best friend! Both love and loyalty shine through the soft dark eyes of this sweet 8" spaniel. Judging the age and original of chalkware is nearly impossible but there are a few "tell-tale" signs that have helped date this piece as an early 20th century creation. First, we can rule out the more common "Carnival Chalkware" due to the semi-matte finish and lack of bright, garish color. Secondly, the detail in the molded plaster-of-Paris is impressive and typical of the Pennsylvania Dutch folk art technique. The realistic color, lack of weighted base, and use of color to add realism to the detailed features are all characteristic of the earlier American chalkware. Value is most often assessed on the amount of detail as well as the realism of color and features. Finally, this bank is a style intended to be broken to retrieve the saved coins. It wasn't until the late 40s and early 50s that most chalkware producers added a stopper to the bottom to make the figures reusable. This handsome canine black and gray companion still has a few coins inside because no one could bear to risk injury to remove them. Very few flecks of color are missing (primarily around the bottom of the figure and the bank slot) and the overall condition is absolutely astounding. Named "Skipper" in honor of my Cocker Spaniel when I was a very young girl, this precious pup needs a new family to love and care for him. I can guarantee he is housebroken, eats very little and really dislikes being taken for long walks. In my eyes, a nearly perfect pet!

Item ID: 01107