LION FIGURE

Much of the work documented and attributed to the Bell family of potters is figural. Solomon Bell reputedly made this exquisitely modeled lion for his niece. Ceramic historian H.E. Comstock speculated that Bell’s production of this form might have been inspired by the sign of the Red Lion Tavern, which was located just a few blocks from the family pottery in Winchester. Shenandoah Valley potters like the Bells, Anthony Bacher (1824-1889), and members of the Eberly family excelled in the production of modeled animals, fancy hollow ware, wall pockets, watch holders and other decorative ceramics popular during the last half of the nineteenth century. Most potters engaged in this type of work also made a broad range of utilitarian vessels in both stoneware and earthenware.