RARE HARNESS HORSE WEATHERVANE BY JEWEL:

This beautiful example of a horse and sulky weathervane was made by A.L. Jewell & Co., Waltham Massachusettes (1852-67).  It has outstanding gilded surface with natural in-use wear and survives in an extraordinary state of preservation.  This highly desired form is rare with such surface and condition.  It is also one of the most interesting forms from a folk perspective, due largely to the unnaturally triangular face of the driver and his half-round, hollow legs and feet which lend a very whimsical quality.  Also interesting is the distinctive body and sheet metal tail of the Jewel horse, which is rather crude but interesting design among horse vanes, easily recognized.  The overall form is extraordinarily pleasing and well-balanced, which lends a great deal to its attractiveness.  Copper, sheet metal, and wire.