Tuesday, February 19, 2008

Old ceramic glory, USA circa 1895

Now I want to introduce another material used for urinals that goes back for literally centuries.  The urinal is not a new idea at all.  In fact, there have been times in our history that the urinal was actually a life saving instrument.  To venture out in the middle of the night to relieve yourself in our not to distant past was at best a frightening necessity, and at worst a life ending event.  And so the history of the ceramic urinal ensues.  This particular piece has an unusual marking on the bottom.  The letters "W. T. & C0."and the date 22/12/95.  Because of the date listing (day, Month, year), I would assume it is of European origin.   This particular design is real basic with no embellishments on the handle or anywhere else.  It has a slight rimmed lip and the glaze has a beautiful patina from being in a very dirty place form a very long time.  This piece was actually discovered in an old barn and could have been there for several generations.  I like this piece because it is so "husky".  It reminds me of a powerful linebacker ready for battle.  It is a 9" long and the opening is 8" around.  This piece seems to be a bit of a design quagmire, but I am very fond of it.  It is obviously old and its condition is excellent with no chips or flaws.   

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