Sculptured stone whale weathervane stand
Date1875 - 1900
Object number00015867
NameWeathervane stand
MediumStone
ClassificationsTools and equipment
Credit LineANMM Collection
Purchased with USA Bicentennial Gift funds
DescriptionThis sculptured stone stand was manufactured in America to hold a hand wrought metal whale weathervane. Weathervanes were commonly displayed on the roof tops of homes, offices and civic buildings in the 19th century and usually featured models of animals essential to the local economy.HistoryThe tradition of weathervanes was brought to America by English settlers. The earliest American versions depicted subjects that were important to the local economy but gradually became more varied. Often weathervanes in seaside settlements featured sailors, ships, whales, seagulls or fish in their mountings. Vanes were made of molded copper cast into carved wooden models. Metal vanes were often gilded and sheet iron vanes were sometimes polychromed. Local craftsmen and individuals made the earliest designs but by the end of the 19th century commercial manufacturers had become established.SignificanceThis weathervane stand represents American folk art in the late 19th century and the importance of whaling to the American economy.
1875 - 1900
1875-1900
1890-1950
