Description

This is the primary vessel used to feed patients and home bound invalids during the Civil War period. 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. Sometimes identified as a baby feeder they were perpetually also available. (baby feeders often were of a smaller capacity and smaller spout opening) 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 without the risk of spillage and at a more measured pace. This particular piece was purchased by our family many years ago in a lot of Civil War era items which came from a Civil War era Gettysburg area estate which also included period clothing, bed linens (some of which bore blood stains), CW era household goods, etc. Family history claimed that several of the ancestral homes housed wounded and convalescing men in the months following the battle. Made of a more common simple glazed pottery, this is a common utilitarian piece, yet retaining that inherent elegance of 19th c. craftmanship. Has very nice crackling and age to the more simple glaze and there is discoloration from use around the mouth of the bowl, the more exposed top of the vessel, and the whole way around the spout indicating extended use. This is a special character feature for display and makes this one a somewhat unique opportunity, especially given it’s origin. (the higher-grade china examples, also in common use during the period and still quite appropriate for including in any CW period inventory, generally do not exhibit such signs of age and use) Nice larger opening in the spout often considered more associated with adult use. (although not necessarily exclusively) While unable to definitively provide specific provenance the source was a trusted acquaintance and the Gettysburg area provenance and period appropriateness of the item we can personally attest to. Could easily priced at twice this amount given the history. Will display very, very well. (CWPG $85.00+)