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19th Century Charles Dare American Carousel Horse

About the Item

This rare and enchanting hand carved and polychrome painted carousel "track" horse by Charles W. Dare is a important piece of antique Americana. One of the earlier works by one of the first carousel makers in the United States, this remarkable horse exudes undeniable character and charm. Carved in a galloping or jumper position, this whimsical yet primitive country-fair style equine exhibits all the hallmarks of Dare’s design, such as the forward-facing ears, the perfectly combed assymetrical mane with a wind-blown effect, the tail made of realistic hair, and the distinctive “bird” saddle, which was carved separately and attached. Mounted on a fitting platform of simple design. Among carousel antiques, those created by Dare are some the oldest and most coveted among collectors. They are the benchmark by which later carvings are measured. They are very seldom seen outside of museums and private collections, and to find one of such rusticly elegant beauty, in such wonderful condition, is truly extraordinary. Considered a pioneer in carousel horse carving, Charles W. Dare was the founder of Country Fair-style carousels and was one of the earliest makers of amusement equipment in America. Dare is credited with designing and popularizing the county fair style of carousel: simple, plain, sturdy, light weight and easily portable and storable. The carousels were manufactured for travelling the countryside to county fairs, carnivals and special events. Dare also built one of the first Ferris wheels, called a Dare wheel, in the country, and is believed to have introduced the fantastical sea horse, or hippocampus, into the carousel menagerie. Originally a hobbyhorse manufacturer, Dare founded the New York Carousel Company, and produced his first portable carousels between 1867 and 1875, with horses displaying the same simplicity as his hobbyhorses. In 1890, Dare renamed his prosperous business the Charles W. Dare Company, and produced a variety of amusement devices and portable carousels populated with an array of menagerie animals, including camels, elephants, deer and donkeys. Dare figures are renowned for maintaining a distinctive folk charm even as other carver’s created more realistic designs. Dimensions: 47.5" High, 10" Wide x 46.5" Long Great condition. Elegantly aged original paint with striking craquelure. Rich color and warm tones, with highly desirable age-related wear, crazing, paint loss throughout and beautiful, warm, rustic patina. Truly a work of art and wonderful addition to any home.

Dimensions:
Height: 47.5 in (120.65 cm)Width: 10 in (25.4 cm)Depth: 46.5 in (118.11 cm)
Style:
Primitive (In the Style Of)
Materials and Techniques:
Paint,Wood
Place of Origin:
United States
Period:
19th Century
Date of Manufacture:
19th Century
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Minor structural damages. Minor fading. Great condition. Elegantly aged original paint with striking craquelure. Rich color and warm tones, with highly desirable age-related wear, crazing, paint loss throughout and beautiful, warm, rustic patina.
Seller Location:
Forney, TX
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU5977226088432

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About the Item

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