I found this small jug and jar type items at a thrift shop today. I think they could be from a dig. A sticker on one reads (to the best of my interpretation) 'Miss. Cov MO Area Unknown'. Inside has dirt / dust particles. Any info would be appreciated.
The tag on the bottom says "Great grandfather Pitzman 1850". That refers to Julius Pitzman, the civil engineer who laid out the city of St. Louis, MO.
Here are my questions:
Would you call this porcelain, bone china, what?
Anyone know the name of the pattern?
How old is it? Does 1850 seem right?
Value? There are no chips, scratches, etc.
Updated to add:
Julius Pitzman was born March 9, 1837 in Hallerstadt, Germany... came to the US in 1854... died 1923 in St. Louis, Missouri.
So, if this was his cup in 1850, he was 13 at the time.
Obviously hand carved wood. Very well balanced and secure when standing. When moved, legs stay attached, but are wobbly. Bird is/was mostly blue and white. Beak and legs were/are a pastel yellow. Eyes seem to be blue metal painted red. Head of bird is slightly turned to bird's left. Neck is attached to body with deep rusty nails? Head, legs, and feet seem to be carved to fit securely, no nails that I can find. Body is one piece of wood with what appears to be old worm holes?
More photos available on request. Mom is now in an Alzheimer's unit. She loved this bird.
