20th Century White Glazed Terracotta Lion Salesman Sample

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20th Century White Glazed Terracotta Lion Salesman Sample

About the Item

Seldom found original and intact early 20th century white glazed figural terra cotta freestanding rearing lion diminutive statue fabricated as an advertising piece by the northwestern terra cotta co., Chicago, ill. The figural statue's design is attributed to skilled artisan fritz albert, who for several years was the head modeller at northwestern. The unique advertising piece dates to the 1915-1920. The lightweight state does contain surface wear consistent with age. Founded in Chicago in 1878 by a group of investors including john r. true, the north western terra cotta company became a major producer of terra cotta ornament used by the construction industry. the studios draftsmen (including the highly skilled fritz albert) transformed architectural blueprints into comprehensive shop drawings that identified exactly where and how each puzzle-like piece would be secured to its supporting structure. By the early 1890s, when north western terra cotta employed approximately 500 men, annual sales approached $600,000. By 1910, its large (still extant) plant at Clyburn and Wrightwood avenues had about 1,000 workers. The popularity of placing terra cotta mouldings on building facades peaked in the 1920s, and north western terra cotta led the way, in Chicago and around the country. Around this time, the company opened plants in St. Louis and Denver. Beginning with Louis Sullivan earlier in the century, prominent Chicago architects like frank Lloyd wright had extensive contracts with the company. Included among the many landmark Chicago buildings for which north western supplied extensive decorative mouldings were the civic opera house, the Chicago theatre, the Wrigley building, and the Randolph tower. Northwestern’s operations in Chicago declined alongside the construction industry during great depression and never returned to their 1920s levels. In 1965, north western terra cotta co. s only remaining plant, in Denver, closed.

Creator:
Northwestern Terra Cotta Company (Manufacturer)
Dimensions:
Height: 4 in (10.16 cm)Width: 6 in (15.24 cm)Depth: 13 in (33.02 cm)
Style:
Renaissance Revival (In the Style Of)
Materials and Techniques:
Terracotta,Glazed
Place of Origin:
United States
Period:
1920-1929
Date of Manufacture:
1920s
Condition:
The glazing remains in great condition. Ther are some minor chips (pictures). Piece stands well on its own.
Seller Location:
Chicago, IL
Reference Number:
Seller: 21641-151stDibs: LU248936655353