Description

This is the primary vessel used to feed patients and home bound invalids during the Civil War period.  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 without the risk of spillage and at a more measured pace. This one is a nice large capacity size 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. Looks like it has several numbers or letters stamped on the bottom which I cannot read. Possibly an inventory production number as is sometimes found on institutional/commercial type pieces. Still, has nice subtle elegant lines and contours indicative of the pride in craftsmanship and design of bygone eras. Nice larger opening in the spout often considered more associated with adult use. Excellent overall condition. 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, and when found those, that were of the size and configuration that also suggested adult use. (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.  A good solid piece for any military, veteran, or civilian medical display. (CWPG $55.00+)