Weathervane: Horse and Sulky

Date1852-1872

Possibly by A. L. Jewell & Co. (active 1852-1867)

Possibly by Cushing & White (active 1867-1872)

MediumCopper and copper alloy

DimensionsOverall: 16 x 26 x 10 1/2in. (40.6 x 66 x 26.7cm)

Credit LineGift of the John D. Rockefeller, 3rd, Fund, Inc., through the generosity and interest of Mrs. John D. Rockefeller, 3rd, and members of the family

Object number1979.800.2

DescriptionFully molded and detailed horse, sulky and driver. Horse lifts foreleg. Mounted with other foreleg as vertical support. Bar between sulky wheels connects perpendicularly to horizontal vane.Label TextThis horse and sulky was one of several weather vanes acquired by Abby Aldrich Rockefeller for display in the Bassett Hall teahouse. The idea of decorating the family's pleasant garden retreat with "outdoor art" may seem logical now, but in the 1930s, few people considered using weather vanes as interior ornaments. The effect must have elicited surprise, amusement, and delight.

This horse is similar to the Arabian horse vanes made by A. L. Jewell & Co. (see acc. no. 1961.800.3), but its oddly elongated neck suggests that it may be a unique variant. A similar horse and sulky vane is recorded, but design differences indicate thaat this vane may have been made at a different time and/or by a different firm.ProvenancePurchased from the Lafayette Workshop, Franconia, New Hamphsire, July 30, 1934. Given to C.W.F. in 1979.