LOT Old Heritage Auctions  /  2007 Feb Americana Grand Format Auction #659  / 

25892

Satirical GOP and Donkey Statue with a Third Par

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Historical Memorabilia Start Price:200.00 USD Estimated At:800.00 - 1,200.00 USD
Satirical GOP and Donkey Statue with a Third Par
<B>Satirical GOP and Donkey Statue with a Third Party</B></I> reference in the form of a turtle, possibly made for the campaign of 1876 or 1880. One of the most unusual three dimensional items we have ever been privileged to offer, depicts a boy wearing a top hat inscribed with the letters "GOP" riding a bucking donkey. Below the donkey's back feet are a snarling dog, marked "Voters" and a slow moving turtle marked "Third Party". Throughout history the main characters of this piece have been often pictured at odds with each other but never with this much detail and fervor. Made in a ceramic form common to novelty items from the 1870s and 1880s, the case could be made that the struggle here had something to do with the campaign of 1876. Both the Democratic and Republican parties were reeling from the Tammany Hall scandal, trying to find nominees for the presidency that the voters would approve. Third parties like the Greenback, Prohibition, and American National Party were offering viable alternatives in candidates such as Peter Cooper (Cooper Union). Here the "Third Party" turtle is seen in this depiction with words inscribed "Maybe some for me?"<BR><BR> There is no date or maker's mark along the edge that truly tells the full story but at an incredible size of 16.25" tall, with a base of 16" the detail certainly gives you insight into the political temperature of the period. Amazing as it seems this piece is in virtually mint condition with original patina.<BR><BR><b>Shipping:</b> Large Holloware/Pottery (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.heritageauctions.com/common/shipping.php">view shipping information</a>)
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