Chamberstick
MakerMade by
Fraunfelter China Company
American, 1923 - 1939
Dateearly 1930s
MediumMold-formed vitrified china with overglaze blue enamel
DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (height x diameter): 2 1/2 x 5 1/2in. (6.4 x 14cm)
ClassificationsCeramics
Credit LineGift of Mrs. Robert D. Scanlon
DescriptionRound vitrified china chamberstick with overglaze printed blue enamel. The chamberstick consists of a small circular tray, about the size and shape of a saucer. In the center is a short candlestick holder with a rim. A circular handle highlighted by a short line of blue enamel interrupts the rim of the tray portion. The rim is decorated with a border consisting of a thin line outside a thick line, both printed in dark blue enamel. At one point, opposite the handle, this border is interrupted by a small dog that is printed in light blue enamel. The dog is sitting on its hind legs and facing left. There are a few small dark spots on the surface of the chamberstick, probably the result of imperfections in the ceramic.
Object number1980.2.4
MarkingsA green printed mark is located on the bottom of the chamberstick. It reads, "With/ Best Wishes/ From/ Fraunfelter China/ Company/ ZANESVILLE, OHIO".NotesHistorical Notes: This chamberstick, along with several other articles from Byrd's first (1932) and second (1933-1935) expedition to Antarctica, was collected by John Henry von der Wall (d. 1977) of Bolton, Connecticut. Von der Wall was a master diver and member of both expeditions. Historical Note: The chamberstick was given with "best wishes" by the Fraunfelter China Company of Zanesville, Ohio. It may have been used on one of Admiral Byrd's support ships, the "Jacob Ruppert" or the "Bear of Oakland." (Hudson and Malley 10/20/2004)
Subject Note: The image of a dog represents the sled dogs used for transportation once the expedition landed in Antarctica. (Hunt 10/20/2004)
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