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. Also sometimes referred to as a baby feeder they were available for that application as well.  As opposed to the oft seen style which resembles a “gravy boat” this type has a round bowl and a side handle. We have seen this type also referred to as a “French” style and also identifies as an earlier type. We chose to inventory this one because it has a nice crackling to the glaze indicating good age and also it is a quite plain creamy white pottery indicating a piece made for common use, possibly institutional. It appears much like that which the various state and federal governments procured or produced for military and veteran convalescence hospitals, etc.  Shows clear mold lines and an applied handle. The half cover on the bow has a very elegant and classic cut despite it’s utilitarian production, typical of the mid 19th c. Has excellent character for display and is in very good condition with just one quite small chip on the lip of the base. A much sought after style and more rare to find in a plain example – as they all simply got used up. (the fancy ones, especially in this style, are much more commonly found) Will display well with any medical set-up. (CWPG $75.00+)