Catalog: Archives (250)

Measuring 3 /12 inches high x 5 ¼ inches wide x 3 inches deep, this early 1950’s USA-made, plastic, RED Aunt Jemima Recipe Box has seen little, if any, use.

Manufactured by FOSTA Products, this highly sought after piece of Black Memorabilia is in near mint condition with some light superficial scratching that is only visible when the box is held under bright lighting and angled to catch the light just right! A small paint rub to the tip of Aunt Jemima’s nose and some 1950’s dirt tucked into tiny crevices are the only other imperfections! The gold painted word, “RECIPES” , written on the lid is mint! Truly in very, very fine condition----- most fortuitous as these recipe boxes were usually well used!

A delightful and essential, vintage piece of early 50’s Black Americana for the serious collector!

An absolutely RARE piece that crosses over many areas of collecting- Black Americana, Ye Old Country Shoppe, or Chocolate!!

"Twin Babies - The Best Choice Providing Quality Chocolate Since 1908!"

Measuring 7 inches in diameter x 7 inches high, this round, 2-piece-mold, clear glass, candy jar has a flattened base to allow the jar to sit on a shelf at angle that facilitates viewing of the both the chocolate advertising and the delightful, smiling Black Twins Chocolate logo graphic! The chocolate jar is in wonderful condition, free of chips or scratches.

The jar graphic and text are both done in black and remain in superb condition- as crisp and clear as the day the piece was first manufactured!

The jar has a 5 inch diameter opening with decorative edging that allows the chocolate jar to be easily filled and better yet, emptied!!

The jar also retains its original metal cover whose bright green painted surface is generally free of wear. The cover is completed by a black wooden knob. The underside of the cover has some very superficial rust staining that has not impacted the integrity of the lid.

A very, very RARE piece of Black Memorabilia that is both visually pleasing and continues to remain quite functional!

Offered for your consideration is a very rarely found Bausch & Lomb advertising and teaching display!

The display is quite appealing with embossed and raised detailing featuring both the interior and exterior eye anatomy.

The sign dates to the 1950s and is in fine condition. It is complete with its original fold-out display stand, and it measures approximately 13 inches high x 8 inches wide.

Measuring 9.5 x 11.5 inches framed, this lovely, circa 1950’s, multi-colored, cross stitch sampler is entitled, “Enough Is As Good As A Feast”. In excellent condition and appearing to have been recently re-framed, this lovely piece features a Mammy and child carrying meal-filled dishes, presumably, to the dinner table. The sampler also features pretty flowers, and appropriately, a knife and a fork! The tiniest trace of a stain is barely visible at the top of the fork, but truly, it is not readily noticeable and certainly does not detract from the marvelous visual appeal of this very sweet piece!

Offered for your enjoyment is an absolutely wonderful, one-of-a-kind, hand-crafted, miniature, folk art dentist office display model from the 1950’s! The display has been artistically crafted and assembled of randomly selected materials and miscellaneous fabrics to create a miniature model of a dentist practicing his craft on a most distraught patient.

This imaginative work of art is best appreciated in person as it was difficult to photograph due to glare from both flash and natural sunlight. All colors are quite rich and not at all faded as they may appear in some photos.

This fabulous vignette captures the apprehension we all may have felt at one time or another as we lay in the dentist chair! The patient’s face and body language tell it all! (Take a look at those nasty teeth! This poor dentist truly has his work cut out for him!)

Quite diminutive, the base measures 6 X 7 inches and the dentist stands just over 7.5 inches high. The condition is very good with crisp painted colors. Please view all photos- the detailing is marvelous! The patient is missing his (R) arm and the dentist had a couple of broken ankles repaired at some point in his career perhaps by a quack orthopedist!! Neither imperfection is readily apparent, as one's eye is drawn to this miniature scene as a whole and the very human message it exudes.

An absolutely wonderful and unique example of folk art ready to display and enjoy in your home or office!

Measuring 5 inches long x 4 inches high, this wonderful 1950's George Lefton China BLACK CHEF Nodder Spoon Rest remains in fine vintage condition retaining its green ink manufacturing mark that reads as follows: "C"- in a circle (for copyright) "Geo. S. Lefton" "...13".

This great piece is in very nice condition with the exception of a light spider hairline to the GLAZE ONLY of the top of the chef hat. The spider does not penetrate to the ceramic. He also has two very tiny edge flea bites by his shoes. Other than these very minor obtrusions, this wonderful piece remains free of other fleabites or hairlines as well as free of repaint, paint wear, or repairs.

The chef's head "bobbles" or "nods" on a metal spring adding much whimsy to this piece! His face has wonderful detailing--as does his body, and he has a very pleasant facial expression!! His big wide smile accentuates his pearly whites! This cute chef holds a yellow wooden spoon in his right hand and wears an adorable red bowtie!

**PLEASE NOTE: ANY WHITE SPOTS ON THE CHEF'S FACE ARE THE RESULT OF CAMERA FLASH ONLY-- NOT PAINT IMPERFECTIONS!**

A delightful piece!!

Offered is an utterly fabulous, EXCELLENT CONDITION, MINT in ORIGINAL BOX, Black Memorabilia, Plastic Toy Banjo / Ukulele / Banjolele complete with original guitar pick, original protective plastic bag, original box cardboard inserts, and original paper booklet of playing instructions!

THIS TOY WAS NEVER USED!!!

The Banjo / Ukulele face has fantastic and patriotic, red and blue graphics on white ground featuring a cute Black Minstrel dancer, a Caucasian Banjo/Uke player, 2 Southern Cotton Bolls, and a fab graphic of a Mississippi River boat christened the "Robert E. Lee"!

Even the original box features a delightful graphic of a Black Minstrel playing the banjo/uke!

Made in the USA by MASTRO, New York, no date of manufacture is imprinted; however, given the styling of the graphics on both the banjo face and in the instruction booklet, an early 1960's date of manufacture has been surmised. Additionally, Mastro Co. also made an identically styled early Beatles banjo- further evidence of an early 1960's manufacture date.

Banjo / Uke measures approximately 21 inches long x 9 inches wide x 3 inches deep. Box measures 23" x 9.50" x 3.75". Box has some very subtle edge wear to seams and corners and one of the cardboard carrying handles has ripped with a 1" handle segment missing. Toy is MINT!!! Photos speak for themselves!

A Pristine Piece of Vintage Black Americana!

Offered is an absolutely wonderful, giant-sized, 1960's, dental toothbrush which once served as an advertising display piece for "DR. WEST'S MIRACLE TUFT" toothbrushes!!

It measures a mammoth 18 inches long and is perfect for display in any dental collection, including in the dentist's office!

The condition is very good with some scratches and unobtrusive bent bristles (perhaps it was slightly used by the Jolly Green Giant??).

A truly unique and quite amusing dental display piece!!! A terrific conversation starter or fun teaching tool!!!

Offered is an extraordinarily decorative pair of late 19th century, English, Arsenic and Opium, apothecary shelf bottles.

The amethyst glass poison bottle is labeled "LIQ:ARSEN: or ARSENIC, and the cobalt bottle is labeled "EXT:PAPAV:LIQ" - the abbreviation for the Latin PAPAVER which is an OPIUM alkaloid.

Each narrow-neck bottle features a gorgeous, faceted, ground-glass stopper that enhances the appearance of this lovely cobalt and amethyst pair!

The bottles also feature stunning, hand-painted labels as well as hand-painted English shields with double lions.

Each bottle measures 7 1/4 inches high.

A must-have addition to the advanced drug store or apothecary collection!

Offered is a wonderful 19th century, antique, papier mache and wooden black mammy doll manufactured during the late 1800s. The doll has no markings to indicate the manufacturer, but it features a papier mache head with a wooden torso, arms, and legs. The face is hand-painted with wonderful detail, and it includes all of its original clothing which consists of a dress, apron, and kerchief. Overall the doll stands a diminutive 5 1/2" tall.

The overall condition of the doll is quite good. It remains in all original condition. The papier mache head is solid with no chips, cracks, or broken areas, and the hand-painted details are strong with little to no loss. The torso is solid and the arms are attached with no breaks. The legs have some damage to the wood. They have split near the top and have some small wood loss, thus, are held securely in place with a string that has been tied to them. The wooden center dowels are still present, however, and they can be repaired if so desired. The clothing is all original and is still in nice condition with no tears or holes, only some light fading and discoloration from age.

Offered is a choice, 19th century, physician's, Homeopathic Medicine Case, a nearly complete example containing 147 of the original 150 corked vials!

Each vial measures approximately 1.5 inches in length including the cork. The vials are nestled in the leather case, and each vial sports a small paper label. The fitted case measures 10.5" long x 2" wide x 3.5" high and shows wear commensurate with age and use. Modest wear and loss to the flap closure is noted with general wear and mild loss of material.

A wonderful representation of late 19th century homeopathic medicine!

This wonderful, 19th century, Whitall Tatum, hanging, apothecary show globe measures approximately 33 inches from top of chain to bottom of fixture. This egg-shaped, 3 1/2 gallon globe dates to circa 1895 and was manufactured at the Whithall Tatum Company in Millville, New Jersey.

The blown-glass globe is in very good condition with the expected and minor, age-related scratches and imperfections of antique glass. There are no cracks, and the globe holds water just fine!

The lovely and decorative, iron supporting frame sports an early, gold-painted finish which is quite appealing. (The original, factory-manufactured finish was completed in brass plate.) The interior of the globe's metal crown has minimal, superficial rust as seen in the photo.

This globe displays quite nicely and is ready for exhibit in your collection!

This hard to find pharmacy “KONSEAL FILLING and CLOSING APPARATUS” was used by early 20th century druggists in the Pierce Pharmacy, Hartford, Connecticut.

The machine was made by The J. M. Grosvenor Co., Boston, and was the most widely used cachet preparation device in American pharmacies.

The condition of this wonderful apothecary tool of the trade is very good, complete with the warm, rich patina one would expect of an antique of this age including the usual scratches, marks and unobtrusive dings and tarnish. The metal parts appear to be nickel plated, and the case is of a hard wood construction. The apparatus measures approximately 18”L x 10”W x 2” H.

The accessories appear to be complete when compared to the images seen in the directions that is glued to the inside case and my reference text. There are 3 packets full of directions for patient use. There is an extra set of funnels included with this sale.

The interior divider has some partially missing edges that does not distract from this set .

A must addition for any pharmacy/apothecary collection.

Please check my website often as this and many other vintage pharmacy items from the Pierce Pharmacy will be posted in the coming weeks. (Circa 1960 PHOTOS of the Pierce Pharmacy are NOT INCLUDED in the sale.)

Offered is a very scarce, 19th century, portable, doctor's, apothecary medicine case.

The traveling case's exterior is constructed of leather, and the interior sports 5 compartments packed with a total of 62 medicine bottles. Specifically, there are 32 narrow medicine vials with metal screw-on caps, plus 17 medium-size vials. There are six miscellaneous vials, 5 of which are corked, and one that houses a later-date, glass syringe. Finally, there are 7 apothecary bottles with ground glass stoppers residing in their individual compartments.

Imprinted in gold-gilding on the inside cover flap is the manufacturer name, "H.K. MULFORD COMPANY", which is a precursor to today's Merck. The label cites "7 Highest Awards from the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition" (which took place in Chicago) and which dates the case to the 1890's.

This interesting case measures 11 inches L x 5.5 inches W x 6.25 inches H. The case is complete and has modest wear and tear commensurate of a used antique. Some separation of leather parts with stains of age and use reside on the interior and exterior surfaces.

An intriguing piece of early pharmacy and physician care.

We are excited to offer this handsome, traveling, doctor's apothecary medicine chest from the 1870-1880 era.

This fine, walnut, twenty-five compartment case houses twenty three medicine bottles, most of which are embossed FRASER & CO, with a few marked FRASER. A total of seventeen of the bottles sport original, early labels. Three other bottles have hand-written labels, and the remainder are unlabeled- one of which has no embossing. There are a total of six amber bottles, two of which are corked and without labels, while four are complete, inclusive of paper labels. Some of the bottles are partially filled with tablets. Please see photos to view the various medicine labels, one of which is OPIUM.

The walnut cabinet measures 11" W x 10.5" D x 6.25" H, and is in nice condition with a split on the front top that can be restored if desired. The finish has a lovely, warm patina, and the brass escutcheon bears just the right amount of oxidation. A wonderful addition to any collection!

This fabulous later 19th century/early 20th century, wool, needlepoint sampler measures 19" wide by 17" long and contains many truly fascinating images that add to the mystery of the sampler’s origin: an American flag and a Royal crown, a Canadian maple leaf, numerous varieties of lovely flowers, two black children on a see-saw, a black girl with her hands on her hips, a center hall style colonial era home, a woman carrying a bag with her hand extended out to a little dog, "Jumbo" the elephant from the circus; a yellow Labrador Retriever, several cats, a rooster, horse, and winged bug, a doe and stag, a bird on a branch, 2 little children -- a girl and boy -- with their backs to us, the initial “S” repeated twice, what appears to be a Celtic design, and a cross with wreath.

One cannot help but wonder whether or not this sampler was completed by black female who was illustrating her life history which included involvement in the UNDERGROUND RAILROAD! The references to BOTH Canada (the maple leaf and the crown) and the US (the American Flag) along with the black images are rather curious, making this a very plausible theory! The sampler certainly depicts happy images of life within an affluent (Irish?) household. Hmmm…could this well-executed sampler have possibly been completed by an ex-slave?????

This magnificent sampler is in very good condition for its 100+ years of age. There is some running of the red wool yarns, most probably the result of a previous owner’s attempt to clean the piece. This likely can be removed professionally, although I do not feel it is a significant detraction and question the necessity of attempting to do so. The edges are a bit frayed, but there are no dirt stains, holes, tears, or repairs, and except for isolated areas, the needlepoint stitching remains in wonderful condition!

This colorful and mysterious sampler would be a thought-provoking addition to one’s Black Americana collection!

Offered is a seldom found, 19th century, drug store "tool of the trade" known as a tablet sorter. Made of wood, this pharmacist or druggist implement shows appropriate wear and patina commensurate with its age and use.

Diminutively sized, this tablet sorter is easily placed anywhere for display, measuring just 6" L x 6" W x 1.5" H.

A rare piece and a must-have for the advanced collector of early drugstore or apothecary items!

JASBO BROWN AND SELECTED POEMS.

Author: Heyward, DuBose.
Title: JASBO BROWN AND SELECTED POEMS.
Subject: African-American Experience and Culture of Charleston, South Carolina Publication: New York: Farrar & Rinehart, (1931)
Edition: First Edition

Description: First edition. Hardcover, gilt-stamped brown cloth. First printing. 96 pages. A tight very good plus copy with a partial, former ownership bookplate with minor writing, some tiny chipping to the spine ends. No dust jacket.

Farrar & Rinehart, Inc. indicated their First Editions by the small oval logo forming the letters F an R immediately above the copyright line on the back of the title page.

The 1924 date is for the copyright date of the poetry, the 1931 is the date of first publication in book form.

Edwin DuBose Heyward (August 31, 1885 – June 16, 1940) was an American author who was born and raised in Charleston, South Carolina. He is best known for his 1925 novel Porgy. He and his wife Dorothy, a playwright, adapted it as a 1927 play of the same name. The couple worked with composer George Gershwin to adapt the work as the 1935 opera Porgy and Bess. It was later adapted as a 1959 film of the same name. Heyward also wrote poetry and other novels and plays, and this book of selected poems reflected his observations of and experiences with black culture in Charleston during his childhood.

Each measuring approximately 7 inches high, these highly sought after Black Vargas wax figures which are mounted on their original wooden platforms, are two of a series of fascinating "street character wax dolls" conceived of and crafted by Mrs. Conception Vargas Alfonso, daughter of the world-renowned, turn-of-the-century-New Orleans, Spanish sculptor, Francisco Vargas.

From approximately 1915 through the 1930's, Mrs. Vargas-Alphonso, influenced by the artistry of her father who also sculpted in wax, crafted a variety of wax dolls inspired by the black folk she saw on New Orleans's street corners while growing up. Sold exclusively at the time through Harriet's, of 318 Rue Royale in the French Quarter of New Orleans, the completely hand-made, one-of-a-kind dolls are seldom found on today's market due to their inherently fragile nature, making them highly sought after in the Black Memorabilia Collectible arena.

The female figure is known as the Praline Seller as her business was to sell freshly made Pralines, a candy confection composed of Louisiana cane sugar and pecans. Her straw, woven basket contains four Praline cookies or flatbreads.

The male figure is known as the grapevine and/or alligator seller. The grapevines are tied in a large bundle on his back which he also supports using the rope in his right hand, while leading a young alligator along in his left.

Vargas wax figures are distinctly characterized by their interesting but highly exaggerated facial features.

The Praline Seller wears a vividly colorful array of different pattern fabrics which work to comprise her eye-catching costume. Atop her head, she wears a large, green and red polka dot bandanna that allows a bit of her wildly-curly, dark hair to peek through, with a solid yellow bandanna tied around her neck. Her her red, cream and blue patterned blouse and skirt are partially protected by a rather sedate, cream-colored apron. All of her clothing is constructed of actual cloth fabric that was coated with a fine layer of clear wax to stiffen it. She carries her basket of pralines on her right arm, while holding a piece of paper in her right hand. A written price list, perhaps? In her left hand she carries a reed duster to keep the flies off of her confections!

The Grapevine/Alligator also wears fabric clothing coated in wax. His pink, white and blue patterned bandanna is tied around his neck and worn over a red, blue and yellow plaid shirt and blue denim pants. He is missing his hat-- perhaps, the alligator ate it?! He holds onto the gator's rope in his left hand while trying to balance the huge mound of grapevine on his back via a rope end clutched in his right hand.

The figures' wax bodies are internally supported by wire frames through which the figures are securely attached to the wooden base. The bottom of each base retains its original stamp which reads, "Genuine VARGAS New Orleans, LA".

These wonderful figures are in near mint condition for their 75+ years of age. The Praline Seller perhaps has lost a couple of her pralines from her basket over the years, an insignificant detail, or perhaps her basket was never meant to be filled to indicate that she had already successfully made some sales! The Grapevine/Alligator is missing his hat as noted earlier, as well as two of his fingers on his left hand, a common injury as they are so very, very thin and inherently fragile. The young Alligator is missing the tip of his tail and the tip of the top of his mouth, again, two very thin pieces of wax which were vulnerable to easily breaking off.

Please note that the Vargas figures are priced $795.00 EACH.

Offered are 3 nice hand forged golf clubs sporting hickory shafts. Included are clubs from Nicolls of Scotland, Hillerick and Bradbys Co. from the USA, and G. Schmidt. All 3 clubs date to the 1920s and are in good condition.

The first club is from George Nicolls and is stamped on back as follows: "HAND FORGED IN SCOTLAND" - '2 IRON' - 'CARRYING POWER 150/70Yds - and in a circular stamp 'NICOLLS INDICATOR'". The stamp of a hand palm also embellishes this nice Scotland created club. The INDICATOR model was introduced in 1926 and became very popular. The face is DOT stamped and there is a small ding on the leading edge close to the heel. Measures 36.5 inches from then end of shaft to the heel. There is slight gap between the hosel and shaft connection and ancient crimp marks on the hosel are noted. This may indicate that the shaft, while appearing period, may be an early replacement. The leather grip is in very good condition and overall the club sports a nice patina.

The second club is stamped on back with the following information: "Hillerick and Bradbys Co. Louisville, KY 'GRAND SLAM' and a stamp of a hand hold playing cards with an 'A' on the front. It is stamped with the number '5' on the sole. The 36.5 inch shaft is stamped "Made by Hillerick and Bradbys Co. Louisville, KY". A small gap is noted between the shaft and hosel. The club has a wonderful surface patina throughout and the grip is solid. The face sports a square stamped pattern.

Club number 3 is stamped on the back with the following: "G. Schmidt - NIBLICK - FORGED and the letter 'W'". The 'W' may be the owners mark. This 36.5 inch club sports a nice patina, and a good complete grip. The shaft has a barely noticeable split by the hosel. The large face has 'line' pattern stamping and the leading edge shows two honorable dings. A neat club to display!

Offered is a group of 3 Wright & Ditson Golf Clubs that include two scarce Hickory Smooth Face examples and one later steel club. Smooth face clubs fell out of fashion around circa 1900, although they were still offered in catalogues for a number of years. I date the following first two of the three clubs offered from 1900-1910.

The two hickory smooth face clubs are each stamped "ST ANDREWS", "Wright Ditson & Makers". Each shaft is stamped "Wright & Ditson" just below the grip and sport a nice aged patina.

The first hickory club appears to be an unmarked putter, and the iron club head portion is in very nice condition. Measures 33.5 inches from heel to top of shaft.

The second hickory club is essentially a 5 iron (MASHIE) although it is not marked as such. There are two small leading edge dings and is otherwise a nice example.

The third club, is a steel club, is marked "5 and MASHIE" on the base and dates to the 1930 era. The painted metal shaft sports a nice dark brown leather grip. The head of the iron is stamped "PARAMOUNT REG.U.S. PAT. OFF. - GRADUATED IRONS 'WRIGHT & DITSON' U.S.A. MILD STEEL". The club head is in good condition with various mild leading edge dings.

All clubs ready to play!

Measuring 13 x 13 inches, this terrific example of 1920’s American Folk Art, a Black Washerwoman Whirligig, is in superb, untouched, all-original, fully functional condition!

Painted in tones of red, green, black and white and showing expected and appropriate age wear to the paint, this delightful wooden sculpture has been mounted onto a simple, present-day, wooden display platform.

Turn the propellers, and Mammy bends forward and back again as she scrubs her clothes on a yellow and black painted washboard that sits in an authentic looking, tin wash tub!

A very rare piece of early 20th century Americana!

Offered is an interesting antique hearing device from the late 1800s called a CONVERSATION TUBE.

According to Elisabeth Bennion, author of “Antique Hearing Devices” page 31, “The great advantage of the conversation tube as a type of hearing aid was that it obtained greater enhancement of sound by placing the bell close to the mouth of the speaker, thereby allowing for a normal conversational tone;.......It proved very effective as the sound, having been collected at source before being conducted to the ear, the speech sound level could therefore be increased considerably without danger of background noise.”

The ear trumpet conversation tube measures approximately 39.5 inches. The metal bell and gutta percha ear piece are in very nice condition. The spiral conical long aluminum tube is encased in silk or plaited wool that is intact though worn and still appealing . A great “conversation” piece!

Offered for consideration is a rare and often overlooked pharmacy tool-of-the-trade called a Pill Rounder (Pill Finisher)that dates to the late 1900s.

A pill rounder was used to create perfect pill spheres just prior to the pill being dusted with powder.

Made of a light colored hardwood, this pill rounder is in fine condition and is double sided which means that it was used to finish two different diameter pills.

Measuring approximately 4 inches wide, this pill rounder would make a wonderful addition to any collection.

*****NOTE*****WILL SELL SEPARATELY*****

This wonderful, all-original pair of matching, 19th century, Whital Tatum, hanging, egg-shaped Apothecary show globes each measure approximately 33 inches from top of chain to bottom of fixture. The 3 1/2 gallon size globes have a patent date embossed inside the brass-plated crown on top: "June 16, 1895".

Both blown-glass globes retain their original brass chains and hooks and are in very good condition with the expected, minor, age-related scratches of an antique glass globe. There are no cracks, and the globes hold water just fine! The interior of the glass globes have a mild hazy appearance, notably towards the upper third of glass. The haziness disappears when the globes are filled with colored water.

The iron supporting frames sport brass plating and are most decorative. There is the expected, age-related, modest loss and tarnishing to the brass features with some metal pitting of the interior and top edge of globe hangers noted.

These globes originally hung in the Yalowich Pharmacy in Rochester, New York. They display beautifully and will add the "WOW" factor to any apothecary collection.

Offered is the fabulously RARE BIGGER HAIR Negro Tobacco container produced from the mid 1940's through the early 1960's. This container is actually constructed of cardboard with tin base, and is much less frequently found, and thus, much more rare than the earlier, all-metal, and scarce-in-its-own-right, Nigger Hair container due to the greater fragility of cardboard as compared to metal, as well as the fewer numbers of cardboard containers produced.

Following the conclusion of World War II, the American Tobacco Company of Virginia changed its product name from Nigger Hair to Bigger Hair, seeking to broaden the product's marketing appeal as well as viewing the latter label as the more-socially acceptable one. (The earlier Nigger Hair moniker was used by the American Tobacco Company from the 1890's through the early, pre-WWII 1940s; the lithographed can was manufactured by the B. Leidersdorf Company, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.) Interestingly, the company DID NOT change the image of the African woman, but merely added the words Fiji Islander to the left of her face in its indifferent and weak attempt to move further away from the earlier, severely derogatory label.

Measuring 7 inches high x 5 3/4 inches wide, the photos provide a fine representation of condition. The container is in near-mint condition with a tiny rub here and there, and some very minor wear around the top of the container that likely occurred from simply taking the cover on and off. This wear is completely covered by the cover. The original orange color of the container remains consistent throughout, and the structural integrity of the cardboard is quite sturdy. The original wax bag which held the tobacco remains inside--highly unusual! The container retains most of its paper Federal Revenue Tobacco seal on either side and is dated February 26, 1926, Series 119, a tax stamp which was issued exclusively in 1949. Truly incredible condition given the age and material composition of this piece--- 69 years!!

This very rare tobacco container is just a wonderful example of latter Black Americana advertising and looks even better "in person" than the camera was able to capture with its lens!

If the Nigger Hair Tobacco container is currently in your collection, the addition of the Bigger Hair container will complete your collection from both a cultural and historical perspective! The Nigger Hair Tobacco container featured in the last photo has been SOLD.

Offered is the fabulously RARE BIGGER HAIR Negro Tobacco container produced from the mid 1940's through the early 1960's. This container is actually constructed of cardboard with tin base, and is much less frequently found, and thus, much more rare than the earlier, all-metal, and scarce-in-its-own-right, Nigger Hair container due to the greater fragility of cardboard as compared to metal, as well as the fewer numbers of cardboard containers produced.

Following the conclusion of World War II, the American Tobacco Company of Virginia changed its product name from Nigger Hair to Bigger Hair, seeking to broaden the product's marketing appeal as well as viewing the latter label as the more-socially acceptable one. (The earlier Nigger Hair moniker was used by the American Tobacco Company from the 1890's through the early, pre-WWII 1940s; the lithographed can was manufactured by the B. Leidersdorf Company, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.) Interestingly, the company DID NOT change the image of the African woman, but merely added the words Fiji Islander to the left of her face in its indifferent and weak attempt to move further away from the earlier, severely derogatory label.

Measuring 7 inches high x 5 3/4 inches wide, the container is in good condition, perhaps a 7 out of 10, with one side exhibiting minor surface scuffing, while on the other side more scuffs and rubs are evident. Some minor wear around the edge of the top of the container likely occurred from simply taking the cover on and off; however, this is completely concealed by the cover. The original cardboard cover was lost with the passage of time; the replacement tin cover shown was in place when this container was acquired.

The original brownish orange color of the container remains consistent throughout, and the structural integrity of the cardboard is quite sturdy. Superficial rust is evident on the inside and outside of the metal base; this rust does not impact integrity of the tin base. The container retains partial remnants of its paper Federal Revenue Tobacco seal on both sides.

This very rare tobacco container is just a wonderful example of latter Black Americana advertising. The container looks better "in person" than in the photos as the camera actually accentuated the appearance of the scuffing, especially on the "better" side!

If the Nigger Hair Tobacco container is currently in your collection, the addition of the Bigger Hair container will complete your collection from both a cultural and historical perspective!

Purchased approximately ten years ago from the Estate Sale at the Greenwich, Connecticut, home of the very prominent, American, CBS Television Personality, GAYLE KING, this nostalgic watercolor, reminiscent of times past, features a young black girl attentively and carefully canning strawberries in the kitchen.

This unsigned and undated piece of art was executed with very soft lines whereby no edge seems sharp- not the counter edge, or the lids of the jars, or the heavy black iron grates of the gas stove. Painted in predominantly darkened hues of blues, silvery-whites and grays, pops of red appear in the freshly canned strawberries and hints of yellow emerge in the window curtain and in earthenware bowl that the young girl works out of, all culminating in the creation of an ethereal effect of calm and serenity.

This lovely piece is generous in size with the visual dimensions of the actual watercolor measuring 15" in height x 26.75" in length. The watercolor is double-matted with an 1/8" wide interior mat in a neutral earth-tone surrounded by a cream-colored, 2 3/4" wide mat that is further complemented with an etched, earth-tone, single line simulating the demarcations of a false third mat- very clever! (see photos) The extraordinarily sturdy, warm-toned, hardwood frame measures 1 3/4" wide with the total framed measurement of this piece approximately 25" in height x 36" wide. The backside of the frame features an Estate Sale, stringed-tag stating the provenance of this piece: "From the Greenwich CT home of Gayle King".

It must be noted that all photographs were taken through the glass of this framed piece, so multiple photographic angles are provided in the attempt to reduce distortion in the photos from light reflection off the glass. Please ignore any variations in color or shading - all are strictly the result of unavoidable light reflection.

Please also note that because this item would be classified as oversized by delivery carriers due to its weight (approx 11 lbs) and its length and width measurements, this item does not qualify for free shipping.

Measuring 3 /12 inches high x 5 ¼ inches wide x 3 inches deep, this early 1950’s, USA-made, plastic, Yellow Aunt Jemima Recipe Box has seen some use but remains quite visually striking and in very good condition!

Manufactured by FOSTA Products, this highly sought after piece of Black Memorabilia shows some wear to the gold lettered word, “RECIPES”, although the majority of the paint remains intact. Small paint rubs are present here and there on Aunt Jemima’s face as seen in photos. The tiny plastic knob on the left side of the box that acts as a hinge for the cover is missing, but this minor imperfection detracts little from the fabulous color contrast and visual appeal of this delightful and essential, vintage piece of early 50’s Black Americana!

This sweet, 1930's, wooden pull toy made by the Hustler Toy Corporation of Sterling, Illinois, features a darling little black character pulling the reins of his white mustang horse! The toy measures 12 inches long x 5.5 inches high.

When the toy is pulled, the wheels rotate and the horse's head bobs up and down! Just adorable!

This 75 year old toy is in very good condition with very minimal and expected, normal wear from light playing to appropriate areas (see photos).

All original including very aged (!)string, with no breaks and no repairs or replacements to either wooden or metal parts. There is evidence of repaint to the green platform and the red wheels only; however this was done a very, very long time ago as the repainted areas show old wear! The horse's black cloth ears are worn-looking but still intact!

A very charming old toy with fabulous, visual "shelf appeal"! Perfect for either the Early Toy or Black Memorabilia collection!

Measuring 3 /12 inches high x 5 ¼ inches wide x 3 inches deep, this early 1950’s, USA-made, plastic, RED Aunt Jemima Recipe Box has seen some use but remains quite visually striking and in very good condition!

Manufactured by FOSTA Products, this highly sought after piece of Black Memorabilia is in lovely, all-original condition with very light, superficial surface wear as seen in photos; this wear is reflective of less-than-typical use. A bonus--the original recipe cards remain inside! Fabulous color and condition contribute to the wonderful visual appeal of this delightful and essential, vintage piece of early 50’s Black Americana!

This stately, titled, English Staffordshire figure of a seated Uncle Tom and Little Eva was produced circa 1853-1855.

Inspired by Harriet Beecher Stowe’s 1853 publication of her controversial “Uncle Tom’s Cabin”, the figure depicts the gentle Uncle Tom holding his little mistress, Miss Eva, who is standing on his knee.

The figure is decorated in wonderfully vivid colors, measures 10.5 inches high, and is in very fine condition with the exception of expected and appropriate superficial crackling to the glaze.

It is titled “Uncle Tom” on the front base, and is referenced in Harding's Victorian Staffordshire Figures 1835-1875, figure 1090 (Book I).

An very exceptional piece of Black Memorabilia for the discriminating collector.

Measuring 13 inches tall, this fabulous, highly-detailed, circa 1900, folk art, cloth doll is reminiscent of William Shakespeare's era! Shall we call him Othello?

Dressed in a machine-stitched, worn-in-places (see photos), black velvet pants and shirt complete with red chain stitch accenting, the doll, Othello, also sports an original and very well-worn red velvet hat and a very frail, pair of original, black leather shoes.

Othello's face is interestingly expressive with hand-stitched black eyes and eye lashes, hand-sewn, red satin lips, and a three-dimensional nose! His hair is fashioned from wool yarn which has selectively faded in places resulting in a salt and pepper look of light tan and black.

Othello's body is fashioned of firm, cotton-batting-stuffed, black sateen cotton that has been machine stitched. As indicated earlier, Othello's red velvet gathered hat or beret is quite delicate in condition with wear, fading and splitting of the cloth quite evident (see photos). His right leather shoe remains firmly tied in place despite the wear evident to it (see photos) and only one half of the left shoe exists (again, see photos). Othello's neck has also experienced some loosening over time from the vicinity of his shoulders making his head wobbly when not supported. This can be repaired-- or not -- if desired by the new owner.

Despite his flaws, Othello, given his approximate 111 years of age, remains a beautifully-fashioned and an historically-interesting example of a folk-art-inspired, black cloth doll fashioned over a century ago to appeal to upper class clientele of the turn of the twentieth century, given the very fine attention to detailing evident in both his crafting and creation.

Measuring 10 inches long, this fabulous and rarely-found, all-original, C1900, cast iron, MAMMY Memo Board actually still retains its original pencil, which is labeled "MAMMY MEMO Made in USA No.370"!

This cast iron piece retains a majority of its original paint, and the bug-eyed caricature of Mammy is suggestive of turn-of-the-century manufacture. This memo board is heavy and hefty and is, not unexpectedly, missing its paper pad. This wonderful piece also reveals its manufacture origin on the reverse side indicating Holyoke, Massachusetts, origin (see photo). Mammy may either be displayed propped up on a shelf, or she can be hung via the original hole in the top of her kerchief.

This cast iron Mammy memo board in such fine condition rarely surfaces in today's collecting market. It is the precursor to and model for all subsequent Mammy memo boards that were manufactured much later on in a variety of materials--plaster-of-Paris, wood, and plastic.

Truly a must-have for the collector of Mammy or Aunt Jemima collectibles!

Measuring a diminutive 4.50 inches wide x 2.25 inches long x 1.5 inches high, this very early, metal, circa 1900, Diamond Match Co. box is very rarely found on today's market.

The box is in very good condition for its 100+ years of age with teeny tiny chips to the surface as noted in photos.

The box features an incredibly detailed graphic on its cover depicting an African-American family gathering around the patriarch as he readies to strike a match for the very first time.

Entitled "Their First Box of Drawing Room Matches. Paterfamilias: You chillin keep back deah! You want you heads blowed off'n you shouldus?"

A fabulously rare piece for the serious collector!

Written by the author of "The Story of Little Black Sambo", Englishwoman, Helen Bannerman's publication of "The Story of Little Black Mingo" followed shortly thereafter, this time, featuring a brave and ingenuous female heroine. Little Mingo, with the help of a friendly mongoose, manages to outsmart both her guardian, an evil old woman who cares nothing for her, and a voracious alligator plotting to devour her! The story ends with Mingo and the mongoose living happily ever after in a nice little house by the riverside.

Helen Bannerman was inspired to write these stories for her two young daughters while the family lived in India; Mingo and Sambo were Indian children and not African-American. They were converted over time to this race, however, by subsequent story tellers and illustrators.

A mini book measuring 4" x 5.75", this cloth-bound hardcover was published by Frederick A. Stokes Company, New York, with 64 pages of vividly colored illustrations, and no copyright date. Research indicates this version was published circa 1902.

Condition is a 9 out of 10! This 120+ year old book has seen little use with just a teeny bit of wear to book edge points and age-related staining with some minor paper loss to the original, overlay-ed paper cover. Some soiling to interior pages here and there, but otherwise, intact and tight with no tears, creases, pen/pencil markings! Amazing condition for a book of this age!

A simply wonderful story, truly a fairy tale of sorts, that is seldom found in this lovely, original, early edition! To see the Little Black Sambo items currently available for sale, simply type “Sambo” into the search box on our website homepage.