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Rare Early Creamware Model of a Pet Squirrel, Ralph Wood Type
Circa 1765-80
The pet squirrel is press moulded and is modeled with its paws holding a nut to its mouth.
The squirrel is authentically coloured in dark and light brown and has a collar around its neck attached to a chain The hollow raise mound in green. The decoration is painted in coloured glazes.
As early as the Middle Ages squirrels were kept as pets until they went out of favor in Europe. The pet squirrel was reintroduced in colonial America and it was common to see children walking around with one perched upon their shoulder. They were easy to train, portable and according to writer Edward Topsell, “sweet sportful beasts and…very pleasant playfellows in a house.” Special tin cages were made for them, as they could not be housed in wooden ones. Little wheels were placed in them to help them exercise.
Dimensions: 7 inches x 5 1/2 inches wide x 3 1/8 inches deep
Reference: The Henry H. Weldon Collection: English Pottery 1650-1800, Leslie B. Grisby, page 369, plate 222 where two similar squirrels are illustrated.
The BADA Standard
- Since 1918, BADA has been the leading association for the antiques and fine art trade
- Members are elected for their knowledge, integrity and quality of stock
- Our clients are protected by BADA’s code of conduct
- Our dealers’ membership is reviewed and renewed annually
- Bada.org is a non-profit site: clients deal directly with members and they pay no hidden fees