1990 Cathy Gatch Turtlecreek Redware Bell Lion Miniature Folk Art Pottery Whimsey Small Start Price USD 150.00 Current Price USD 150.00 Time Left - Bid Count 0 Buy It Now Price - Reserve Price - Start Time Saturday, November 29, 2008 End Time Monday, December 08, 2008 Location West Virginia See more about '1990 Cathy Gatch Turtlecreek Redware Bell Lion' Description   I'll be listing lots of redware & stoneware pottery, as well as other things I've collected over the years and have enjoyed very much. I have to downsize, and it's time for someone else to give these neat pieces a new home.   Cathy Gatch 1990 Turtlecreek Pottery Redware MINIATURE BELL LION This small redware hand-built piece is a reproduction of a Solomon Bell Lion.  Solomon Bell (1817-1882) was a second generation potter, who lived in the Shenandoah Valley in Strasburg, VA.  From what I’ve read, the first Bell Lion was made in 1850 for his niece as a “whimsy”, although I’ve also read that it could also have been used as a door stop. Whatever the initial use, the Bell Lion is a striking piece of folk art.  This particular miniature piece of redware was made by Cathy Gatch at Turtlecreek Pottery in 1990.  The body was hand thrown and is entirely hollow (as was the original by S. Bell).   The head was hand sculpted and the lion’s mane (as was the Bell original) was extruded clay and has manganese glaze. Also note the lion’s tail, which was hand formed and has manganese glazed extruded “hair” at the tip. Identified on the lion’s left rear leg: “TCP – 1990 – CG”. This lion measures (approximately): 3” from very rear of back leg to very front.  Bottom of front leg to tip of ear is 3”.  Back of tail to front tip of nose, 4”.  Ear tip to ear tip; 1-1/4”. To give this the look of an antique, like all Turtlecreek’s Museum Pieces, this miniature was made with lead glaze.  All chips and aging were done intentionally to give this great little lion an early appearance and are all original to the piece. US Bidders/Buyer ONLY.    Paypal Payment, please – and, I would appreciate payment within two (2) days of winning bid.  Shipping is expedited once payment is received. Shipping is gratis on this one, and insurance & Delivery Confirmation included.   Place a Bid!