Weathervane

Periodca. 1820 - 1850

MediumSheet iron, tin, and zinc

Dimensions32 × 31 × 13.25 in. (81.3 × 78.7 × 33.7 cm)

ClassificationsAdvertising, Business & Ornamental Artifacts

Credit LineGift of William C. Riker, 1980

Object number1980.16.3

DescriptionA flat silhouette-style weathervane in the form of a galloping horse, cut from sheet iron and painted bright yellow. The horse's head faces down, with a jagged mane and outstretched tail. The bottom portions of both rear legs have been riveted to the main sections, a later repair or replacement. The horse is riveted to an iron rod, which in turn is inserted into an ornamental dome-shaped mount shaped of tin panels that end in a bottom edge cut into points. The wooden support column originally attached to the underside of the dome.
Curatorial RemarksPrior to 1850, most weathervanes were produced as a flat silhouette. This simple technique was within reach of even the most rural and unskilled of artisans. After 1850, mass production techniques of metal casting and molding allowed manufacturers to offer fully three-dimensional vanes.NotesThe popularity of horse weathervanes was due largely to the prevalence and importance of this domesticated animal, in addition to the decorative interest of a running horse's silhouette.

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