Description

This is the primary vessel used for the feeding of invalids during the Civil War period. Very similar in design to the feeder we have listed which came from Gettysburg. Consists of a ceramic vessel similar to a “gravy boat” but with a closed spout so the liquid nourishment could be poured into the mouth in measured amounts without the risk of spillage and at a more measured pace. This one is made of white china with a porcelain type finish.  We inventoried it because it is quite plain indicating common utilitarian or even institutional use, like that which the various state and federal governments procured or produced for military and veteran convalescence hospitals, etc. Has the letters “H & Co.” stamped into the piece on the bottom. I did not immediately locate a reference for this mark.  Has nice subtle elegant contours and molded design indicative of that pride in craftsmanship seen in the mid 19th c. era. While the feeders were also used well into later periods, we have limited our inventory to either makers or styles that are consistent with the mid 19th c. period. (occasionally a unique or “special” piece was also inventoried) Of course, the Civil War produced record number of such patients for the immediate demand and future years for the product. Solid mid-size example in excellent condition. Plain examples are just the ticket for the military hospital display and harder to find than the fancier ones made for middle to higher end domestic consumption. (CWPG $55.00+)