Rare Diminutive
PRANCING HORSE
Weathervane    

Waltham, Massachusetts, Civil War period, ca. 1860-1865.

Confidently attributed to the A.L. Jewell Co (active 1852-1867), one of the earliest manufacturers of American weathervanes. Molded copper with cast zinc head, original throughout with an authentic and superb verdigris surface.

Originally removed from a barn on Cape Cod.

This rare diminutive size Arabian has one raised front leg, much like the “Index” horse, with much sculptural appeal. The curvilinear lines of the molded body are complimented by the impression of the mane, well-defined cast zinc head, and beautiful flowing tail. The horse has expression and sensitivity.

Superb original condition. Just 20 inches long x 18 tall (including stand).

The sculptural nature and versatile small size make this weathervane a strong fit in a period or contemporary home (in which I have included images). An example of this Jewell prancing horse is in the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum at Colonial Williamsburg. Another is pictured page 137 in the ART OF THE WEATHERVANE-Robert Shaw). A detailed chapter on Jewell is pp 128-141.