SOLD
While some photos may appear a bit blurry, this is a function of photography and not condition. All postcards are crisp and clear! The two comical cartoon postcards are much more brightly and vividly colored than the photos depict. The eight photo postcards also feature titles describing their subjects.
A delightful grouping that would be much-appreciated framed!
SOLD
The AYER'S Cathartic Pills card is copyrighted 1883 in the lower right front corner by the J.C. Ayer Company Company, Lowell, Massachusetts. This card is brilliantly colored with a phenomenal graphic of the Black "Country Doctor" holding a small child who clutches an Ayer's Pills advertisement in her hand. The reverse side carries a testimony to the wonder of the multitude of curative properties of Ayer's Pills. The card measures 2 5/8 inches x 4 3/4 inches.
The 1st J.P. Coat's Company card is not copyrighted but is at the latest, a circa 1890's card, and features a smiling African-American boy seated on a spool of Coat's thread tickling a bright yellow shining sun. The card measures 3 inches x 4.50 inches. The reverse side is an advertisement for J.P. Coat's Fast Black Spool Cotton thread.
The Clarke's Spool Cotton Thread advertising card featuring an African-American boy beating a drum is sold.
The 2nd J.P. Coat's Thread card depicts a humorous scene of an African-American couple attempting to move a very stubborn mule. The card measures 3 inches x 4.75 inches. It is copyrighted on the reverse 1881 by Auchincloss & Brothers, New York. The reverse side advertises the myriad of J.P. Coat's products.
The final card is another Clark's Mile-End Spool Cotton advertisement that features a humorous lithograph of a well-dressed African-American man being tripped by a young Caucasian boy holding Clark's super-strong thread, and measures 2.75 inches x 4.50 inches. The reverse side is a continuation of testimony and advertisement for the product.
All trade cards are in very fine condition with nice color and some very subtle evidence of age staining as seen in photos. The cards have no rips, bends, or fading.
These seldom-found trade cards would look fabulous framed as a group!
As each is priced separately (see photos for pricing), please email us stating which item you wish to purchase so that we can customize your order form.
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The advertising card measures 2.75 inches x 4.50 inches and is entitled "Photography Under a Cloud". It features a fabulous litho of 5 African-American boys with exaggerated facial features who are attempting to take a photograph using an early camera. The litho is marked in the lower right corner "Bufford, Boston". The reverse side further advertises WELCOME SOAP and features two shaking hands.
The trade card is in very fine condition with nice color and some very subtle evidence of age staining as seen in photos. The card has no rips, bends, or fading, and would be lovely matted and framed!
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Fabulous black and red line illustrations as represented by photos adorn this 38 page book! The book features the Christmas-time adventures of eight year old Turquoise "Turky" Trott, one of six of Mammy Trott's children. Featured in the book is a Black Santa!
Interior pages are in fine condition--they are tightly bound together; front and back covers are also tight. The hard bound covers appear to be in mint condition, having remained protected by the original dust cover which has remarkably minimal wear to its edges and retains its brilliant coloration. A penciled in number has been written on the interior front of the book. Stamped on the edge of the interior of the paper dust cover is the original 1942 selling price of 85 cents!
A charming addition to one's Black Americana collection, and a black-themed children's book that is very rarely found in today's collectible market!!
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This circa 1920-30's Johnny Griffin item is constructed in solid brass and was designed for use as a pipe rack although it could hold spoons or even neckties.
It is in all original condition with delightful patina- not a reproduction- no replaced parts- and measures 13 inches long x 6 1/2 inches high and 1 1/2 inches deep. It does not retain any marking other than a mold number 1592.
Johnny Griffin Black Americana collectibles should form the cornerstone of any serious Black Memorabilia collection!
To see all of the Johnny Griffin items currently available for sale, simply type “Johnny Griffin” into the search box on our web home page.
On Hold
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.
SOLD
This document is an exceptionally rare piece of historical ephemera in that it is the actual, formal and legal lawsuit filed by slave owner, Esther Miller, along with 25 other named male citizens of Decatur County, Georgia, against one Cader Powell for the "offense of beating, whipping, and assaulting a slave without sufficient provocation."
The document goes on to state that Cader Powell assaulted "a certain male slave named Issac (property of Esther Miller) with sticks, fists, cow pokins, and other dangerous weapons and then did unlawfully whip beat him, so that the healthy body of service of said slave was greatly injured without sufficient provocation being first given by said slave to the great annoyance of the said Esther Miller, the lawful owner of said slave..."
While one would like to think that this formal lawsuit was filed as a result of the tremendous outrage against humanity felt by the 26 parties bringing the suit, one has to consider that this lawsuit was more likely filed due to financial considerations--that the cruelly assaulted slave, Issac's, monetary value as owned, usable property was greatly diminished as a result of his beating. It is quite reasonable to infer that the slave, Isaac, suffered permanent physical injury as a result of his beating and that his monetary worth was thus, permanently devalued.
Regardless of the motivation behind the filing of the lawsuit, to find such extant documentation describing the conditions of southern slavery as well as the objection of slave-owners to the cruel and inhumane treatment of a slave is rare indeed.
The document remains in excellent, all-original condition. It measures 7.75 inches wide x 9.75 inches long.
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Offered is a fabulous and very seldom found World War I recruitment poster that honors the service of the African-American male Army Calvary soldier.
Tastefully rendered, this 17" x 20" paper lithographed poster on cardboard depicts a World War I African-American Calvary soldier bidding farewell to his proud sweetheart/wife as his regiment marches forward off to war in the background.
This rarely found poster is entitled, "COLORED MAN IS NO SLACKER". It was published in 1918 by S.G. Renesch of Chicago (thus printed in lower left hand corner), and is one of only two WWI recruitment posters that were published for the purpose of encouraging the enlistment of male African-Americans. The theme of the two different posters was to offer participation in the first World War as an opportunity for African Americans to demonstrate their patriotism and serve their country. (The second recruitment poster was entitled "True Sons of Freedom" and invoked the memory of Abraham Lincoln and the staunch bravery of black troops to inspire African Americans to enlist.)
The poster remains in its original, black-painted, wooden frame with glass, with original nails holding the poster in place in the back.
The poster remains in very fine condition for its 90+ years of age, showing some subtle wrinkling of paper to the lower 1/5th of the poster, likely the result of subjection to dampness, although, please note, that NO water staining is present.
This poster is a credit to the service of the many African-American men who so faithfully served and died to protect the liberty of the United States of America.
A must-have addition to one's Black Memorabilia or Militaria collection!
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The game features a brightly colored lithograph target depicting an African-American Gent to the left and a Caucasian Clown to the right, each with wide, gaping, open mouths in which one is to aim a ball.
This brightly lithographed cardboard game retains its 3 original wooden balls as well as cardboard cover, box, and target piece.
Measuring 13 inches square, the game displays wonderfully! As evident in the photos, the box cover and bottom show expected edge wear and many years back, the box corners were reinforced with tape. In the center of the box cover, a puncture is evident (see photo) that does not go through to the inside. The interior target piece does not show the same level of wear as it was protected by the cover and box bottom. The box cover is marked on the bottom, "Milton Bradley Company, Springfield, Mass. USA" and "Made in USA 4682".
A RARELY found, quite visually captivating Black Memorabilia collectible!
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This sample size tin is in very fine condition with minimal surface wear as is evidenced by the photos. The yellow coloring is uniform--any white marks seen in photos are light reflection, not wear or damage.
This product was created by the Madam C J Walker Company of Indianapolis, Indiana, for the purpose of "brightening sallow or dark skin".
It is unknown whether the contents remain as the tin cover is tightly affixed and is immovable.
Madam C.J. Walker built a fortune in the early 1900s marketing hair care and beauty products to African-American women. Born in Sarah Breedlove 1867 Louisiana of parents who were former slaves, she moved her company to Indianapolis in 1910. When she died in 1919, Madam Walker was considered the wealthiest black woman in America. Her daughter, Lelia, succeeded her as president of the C. J. Walker Manufacturing Company.
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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.
Withdrawn
This product was produced by the lime manufacturers, Hatmaker and Place, of Canaan, Connecticut, in the late 1800s. This small company was located within a large "lime belt" that stretched from Connecticut to Vermont. Back in the day, lime powder mixed with water was quite commonly used to "white wash" or paint numerous surfaces, and it was also used as a medicinal disinfectant! The manufacture of lime from marble was one of the earliest and most successful mineral industries in Connecticut, with historical records dating the establishment of the first CT lime manufactory to 1722.
Given its age and the fragility of paper, condition of this wonderful box is quite good. The lower portion of the back side of the box evidences light surface wear with some of the printing on the lower portion of the box worn away as a result. The front of the box has a 3.25 inch long tear which resulted in the loss of the lime powder from the box.
This early piece of Black Americana advertising is EXCEEDINGLY RARE and may well be a ONE-OF-A-Kind item! The Hatmaker and Place Company was one of a number of very small manufactories located within the "lime belt" that were ALL bought out and immediately closed down by a wealthy group of investors who then created and incorporated the mammoth monopoly, The New England Lime Company, early in 1902.
This fabulous piece of Black Americana is NOT to be missed by the serious collector!
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These mint condition, 1940s, PEARL CHINA Black Chef and Mammy salt and pepper shakers are simply outstanding!
Measuring a super-size 7.50 inches high, this exceptionally large salt and pepper pair are meant for stove-top and not table-top use, thus their robust dimensions!
The pair are in mint condition and likely were never used. They retain their original corks and are accented in 24KT GOLD-- on the black chef's lips, ladle, the kerchief in his back pocket, and his name, "SALTY" and on Mammy's name, "Peppy".
Rarely found in this condition, the pair displays simply beautifully!!!!
SOLD
In very nice condition with minor scratches to paint here and there as seen in photos, this wind-up toy works, but the mechanism does have the tendency to stick a little. Marked J. Chein.
A must-have for the avid Black Memorabilia Toy collector!
SOLD
The now empty tin features the Banania brand trademark graphic of a smiling Blackamoor.
Condition is all-original with some wear to tin from use as seen in photos. Light superficial rusting present here and there that does not affect tin integrity and is mostly noted on interior surfaces.
This tin is widely reproduced today, with the original tin very, very difficult to find. A fabulous opportunity to add an authentic vintage BANANIA collectible to one's Black Memorabilia collection!
***Please view the smaller, vintage, BANANIA tin currently available as well as an exceedingly rare, vintage, Banania dexterity puzzle***.
sold
The sign states:
"Scott's Santal-Pepsin Capsules A Positive CURE for Kidney and Bladder Diseases.
Cures Quickly And Permanently The Most Obstinate Case of Gonorrhea and Gleet No Matter of How Long Standing.
Absolutely Harmless.
Sold by Druggists Price $1.00.
Put Up Only By The SANTAL-PEPSIN Co., Bellefontaine, O.
SOLD BY PHELPS PHARMACY, F.W. Beavees, Mgr., Cor. Wyoming Ave. and Spruce St., Se******, PA."
This amazing venereal disease cure sign features a most formidable likeness of Mr. Scott flanked by a Laurel Crown in the upper left hand corner, no doubt intended to add fortitude to the claims he makes of his product!
The sign was made by the Scioto Sign Co of Kenton, Ohio, and is so marked in the lower right corner.
This bright yellow sign shows ravages of its 118+ years of age, with crimps and creases to the tin, small holes-- no doubt made to hang the sign up--, scratches to the surface resulting in paint loss, and some superficial rusting where paint is missing. Some fading to lettering in the lower right.
Regardless of its "age marks", this sign is certainly a one-of-a-kind find that will add sparkle to a collection! May be hung on a wall on displayed on a shelf! Not to be missed!
SOLD
This Black Porter Pushing A Wheelbarrow amazingly still retains his original, red ribbon neckerchief. The windup mechanism is intact and holds a full wind...the man's legs are a little sluggish after 90+ years, but the toy does work.
This very difficult-to-find, Black Memorabilia toy measures 6" long, is approximately 2 3/4" wide and is 6" tall. Minor rubs to paint are present as noted in photos, but this paint loss is insignificant given the age of this toy.
A fine addition to one's Black Memorabilia collection!
SOLD
The Pore Lil' Mose series was created in 1900 by The New York Herald cartoonist, Richard F. Outcault, the creator of the more popularly known 'Yellow Kid' and 'Buster Brown' comic strips. Pore Lil' Mose was the first Black comic strip.
Measuring 14.75" x 11.75" framed, the comic remains in very fine condition with excellent, vivid color, and no rips or repairs. It is framed in an old black wooden frame with a heavy cardboard backing and would benefit from professional framing using archival, acid-free materials to enhance its life for many years to come.
Highly sought after among Black Americana collectors!
The history of the Pore lil' Mose comic strip:
In creating Pore Lil’ Mose, R.F. Outcault took an absurd concept of a 7 year old black kid living on his own in 1901 New York City with his monkey, bear, dog, and cat friends and was able to make people laugh and at times, take a critical look at themselves and the world they lived in.
The “Pore Lil’ Mose” series was far ahead of its time in social commentary and portrayal of blacks. Before he was a cartoonist, Outcault was a masterful illustrator working for Thomas Edison producing complex illustrations for Edison’s laboratories as well as illustrating for some of the largest newspapers and magazines of the late 1800’s. In the beginning, cartooning was just a way for Outcault to make additional income and have fun. Because of his experience as an illustrator, his early cartoons were drawn with more detail and skill than other cartoonist and are rich in artistic and historical detail.
What truly makes “Pore Lil’ Mose” stand out from other black cartoons of the period is Outcault’s portrayal of blacks. One should keep in mind that in 1900, the Civil War had only been over for 35 years, and the civil rights movement of the 1960’s was still over sixty years away. “Pore Lil’ Mose” was the first comic strip to have a black character as its main protagonist, and for over half a century, “Pore Lil’ Mose” was the only comic strip to have portrayed blacks as judges, teachers and other professionals. When one views the 70 plus “Pore Lil’ Mose” strips, one sees that Outcault created a character in Mose who was polite, kind, generous, accepting, intelligent and at times a deeply profound thinker who loved his family and friends. Pore Lil’ Mose can be viewed as a role model for every human being regardless of race or ethnicity.
SOLD
Also currently offered for sale and priced separately are a second set of rarely found, Georgia, child's, slave shackles (no key with this set) that is featured in the last photo. An additional set of ADULT shackles is also available. Please type the word "shackles" in the search box on our home page to find all 3 sets of shackles currently offered for sale.
The Middle Passage Museum was the dream of Jim and Mary Anne Petty of Mississippi as well as that of an anonymous Georgian benefactor who had together compiled a collection of slave artifacts numbering over 15,000 pieces and who had hoped to find a permanent site in Mobile, Alabama, for their museum. While they formed a non-profit organization to raise funds for their hoped-for museum, their dream was never realized.
In a 2003 statement, Jim Petty remarked, "The importance of the exhibit of these artifacts is to understand the harshness of what slavery and segregation was all about. The items in the exhibit remind us of the terrible heinousness of slavery. Viewing the collection can be very emotional, but it is a tool through which we can understand, honor and respect a great culture. We want to realize that out of slavery, a great culture emerged, and carried on, and continued to strive for a better life regardless of the adverse conditions that were placed upon them."
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In bright red and white paint, the sign advertises the "Booker T Colored Motel" of Humboldt, Tennessee. The motel name is clearly a reference to the honorable Booker T. Washington (April 5, 1856 – November 14, 1915) who was freed from slavery as a child at the end of the Civil war as a result of the 13th Amendment to the United States Constitution which officially abolished slavery. Booker T. Washington, an important educator and author, became a dominant figure in the African-American community advocating education as the pathway to a better life for African-Americans as well as the use of peaceful pathways to gain rights for the African-American community.
Measuring 24 inches wide x 15.5 inches high, the sign is in fine condition with minor and typical signs of age: some subtle crimping to the metal as well as some evidence of superficial rusting as noted in photos.
This important artifact displays easily and is quite visually appealing! A wonderful opportunity to acquire a piece of history!
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The pipe remains in wonderful condition. It appears to have had some very limited use based upon the slightly darkened condition of the interior bowl.
The pipe is French made and bears the following on either side of the pipe stem, "Bon Fumeur" (Good Smoking) and "Tabaco" (Tobacco). The pipe stem also retains an orange colored, Dutch paper label which reads, "Holland Goedewaagen's" advertising that this pipe was exported for sale in The Netherlands.
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This 1940s sign is white-washed on both sides with lettering and art work completed in red paint. Made of metal with 2 holes on either end for hanging. It has seen its share of vandalism with numerous deliberately inflicted scratches to the paint as seen in photos.
Once part of the Middle Passage Museum inventory, the sign has been de-accessioned. The Middle Passage Museum was the dream of Jim and Mary Anne Petty of Mississippi as well as that of an anonymous Georgian benefactor who had together compiled a collection of slave artifacts numbering over 15,000 pieces and who had hoped to find a permanent site in Mobile, Alabama, for their museum. While they formed a non-profit organization to raise funds for their hoped-for museum, their dream was never realized.
In a 2003 statement, Jim Petty remarked, "The importance of the exhibit of these artifacts is to understand the harshness of what slavery and segregation was all about. The items in the exhibit remind us of the terrible heinousness of slavery. Viewing the collection can be very emotional, but it is a tool through which we can understand, honor and respect a great culture. We want to realize that out of slavery, a great culture emerged, and carried on, and continued to strive for a better life regardless of the adverse conditions that were placed upon them."
SOLD
The handle of the spoon is engraved "D & G DRUG STORE" and in the bowl of the spoon are the graduation marks for 1 and 1/2 teaspoons.
Very nice advertising / drug store collectible.
SOLD
Remaining in its original frame, this watercolor retains its vibrant color. A lovely piece of Black Americana executed with some naivete!
Please ignore any white streaks seen in photos; these are the result of light reflection off of the glass.
SOLD
This sign was found in storage inside of an old Austin, Texas, gas station and likely designated the COLORED ONLY entrance to a local public building or room within.
This historic sign is enameled on both sides with the word "COLORED" and a downward pointing arrow. Colors are blue with cream background.
The sign is in all-original condition with several chips to the porcelain enamel as well as subtle edge wear. It likely was posted on the interior of a building as its overall condition is really quite fine and does not evidence any characteristics one would expect of a sign that was subject to the ravages of Mother Nature. Or...perhaps the sign was simply never used-- a mystery never to be solved!
An utterly phenomenal, extremely RARE, one-of-a-kind, museum-worthy piece of Black American history that is quite likely the only one of its kind extant today!
Please take a moment to view the second "Jim Crow" Segregationist Era sign I currently have the pleasure of offering.
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This sign was once hung on the outside of the railroad station stop at Pine Bluff, Arkansas, designating the section of the railroad depot where African-Americans were required to stand to wait to board the train -- and then onto a specifically designated "COLORED ONLY" railroad car.
This sign is offered to the collecting public for the first time as it was recently recovered from the attic of an early 1900's home in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, that is presently undergoing restoration.
This fabulous sign is painted on both sides- white background with black lettering on the front and pale green on the back- but only the front side carries the hand-lettered "COLORED SECTION" "PINE BLUFF SECTION" lettering. If one looks closely, one can still see the pencil markings made by the painter to center the lettering on the sign.
This one-of-a-kind sign is in all-original condition and has some paint loss, crazing, nail holes, original nails, and superficial splintering to the edges of the sign as noted in photos. None of these age-characteristics impact the integrity of the sign and are more than appropriate to the age and purpose of the piece.
The sign consists of two separate pieces of wood; the first piece reading "COLORED SECTION measures 12 inches long and the second piece which denotes the physical location of this Arkansas railroad depot, reading "PINE BLUFF" with the words "SECTION" having been split off some time ago measures 7.5 inches long. The two sections need not be displayed together as the "COLORED SECTION" sign stands wonderfully on its own; the PINE BLUFF sign documents location but need not be hung if one does not wish to do so. Hooks and eyes have been added to facilitate hanging. They can be easily removed if desired.
An utterly phenomenal, extremely RARE, one-of-a-kind, museum-worthy piece of Black American history that is quite likely the only one of its kind extant today!
Please take a moment to view the other "Jim Crow" Segregationist Era signs I currently have the pleasure of offering.
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In fabulous and complete, all-original condition with no repaint, replaced pieces or repairs, this rare piece is impressed on the underside of its wooden and metal dancing platform with patent date and manufacturer (see photos). The dancing man is constructed of painted wood with teeny metal nails holding his arms and legs in place; knees are jointed. Measures 7 inches tall x 7 inches in length.
An extremely rare piece of Black Americana!
SOLD
In all original condition with absolutely no repainting, this delightful piece retains its brilliant coloration. The piece has appropriate wear to paint as noted in photographs and also shows superficial rusting here and there, again, as noted in photos.
A fabulous and seldom-found display piece, most visually charming to the eye!
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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.
SOLD to The Smithsonian Institution
Rarely found in this pristine condition, the body of this 8 inch long puppet is constructed of a soft, cotton, flowered fabric, and her head and hands are constructed of a soft rubber. She still retains her "Hazelle" cloth label. Her face is very sweet in appearance!
Produced in the 1950's, the Hazelle Company was a puppet-making company located in Kansas City, Missouri. The company began making hand puppets and marionettes in 1932, and it continued operations for the next 43 years. The founder, Hazelle Rollins, passed away in 1984, nine years after the company closed its doors.
A unique opportunity to acquire a superb vintage puppet! Please see the companion Hazelle Little Black Boy Hand Puppet also offered!
SOLD
Printed in 1937, this delightful story of little Ezekial and his Florida family was both written and illustrated by Ms. Garner.
The book is tightly bound with some foxing at the front and back cover interior seams. The colors are much brighter and more vivid than they appear in my photos. No rips, tears, or repairs. Photos provide a representation of condition of interior pages, cover and dust cover. Excellent condition for its 70 years!
A very difficult to find Black Memorabilia children's story book!
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This vibrant work, painted in June 2006, depicts a charming 1930's scene of a Southern cotton farm complete with log cabin, old stone wall, dilapidated truck, two big red barns, and two black women picking cotton in the fields. The leaves have turned the brilliant colors of autumn and some have fallen to the ground. The piece is signed in red in the lower left corner "Geraldine Smith June 2006".
(Please disregard any "shiny" or "white" areas in the painting; these are the result of camera flash glare ONLY and are not imperfections in this work. The colors in this painting are actually more vibrant and brilliant in tone than can be depicted in photos.)
Geraldine Smith, who is now in her late 50's, did not begin painting until the late 1980's when she saw the television painter, Bob Ross, and decided she wanted to give painting a try. "I don't know why," Ms. Smith said. "I couldn't draw a straight line. I'd sit up all night trying to paint. Lord help me. Something was driving me to learn to paint." Smith credits The Lord with providing her with the continued inspiration to paint, and states, "When the spirit is leading me, I can paint and paint."
Source for quotes and newspaper photo, The News, South Carolina.
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The little boy shuffles along quite nicely via his original wind-up mechanism.
Over 80 years old, he is still quite sturdy as he was well made, but does show some superficial scratching from use over the years.
Of particular interest is the little boy's face which is highly exaggerated, a racist characterization that was unfortunately typical of the era when this toy was produced.
SOLD
This 1920-30's toy is the earlier version of the two Mammy walker toys produced by this company, and as one of the early tin African-American-themed toys, it is considered an important addition to any vintage toy collection representing this genre.
Mammy shuffles along quite nicely via her original wind-up mechanism. Over 80 years old, Mammy is still quite sturdy as she was very well made, but she does show some expected scratching from use over the years, and she also has some very typical, superficial surface rusting- most notably at one side seam.
SOLD
Coloring is quite brilliant, and the condition is very fine with appropriate age-related crazing and some tiny, circular, firing imperfections on Mammy's polka dotted scarf as noted in photos. Please note that white marks are flash reflections, not imperfections. Makers mark is noted on the back--- an "E" inside of a crown.
A delightful piece of Black Memorabilia that displays wonderfully on a wall or shelf!
SOLD
The sign measures approximately 6’ long x 12" wide and is double sided. It is in very nice overall condition except for areas of paint loss, some crackling and general wear expected of a vintage sign, noted especially to one side. There is also a very subtle bow to the sign, but this does not take away from its most unusual appeal. There are 2 metal brackets, one on each side, which were originally used for mounting upon a building exterior.
A highly unusual and macabre offering for those who collect funerary pieces!
SOLD
This fabulous toy is labeled on each side of the orange wagon as follows: "HAPPY HAM FARM PRODUCTS, Newton & Thompson MFG CO, Brandon, Vermont".
The wagon is being "driven" by a hand-painted black figure who moves forward and back again as the wagon is pulled along on its wooden wheels.
In wonderful, all-original condition--no repaint or replaced wooden pieces. One little staple holding the rear axle in place appears to have been replaced as well as the little metal rod which acts as the axle holding the black boy in proper position.
A fabulously RARE piece to embellish one's Black Memorabilia or Vintage Pull Toy collection.
SOLD
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!!
SOLD
This colorful paper broadside measures approximately 10.5 inches wide x 15.25 inches, and framed, measures 17 inches wide x 22 inches long. The poster or broadside is in excellent condition with the exception of a small, 1.5 inch long crease line above the top of the gray side of the model under the word "hair'. Otherwise wonderful!!
This piece has been matted and framed for some time and most recently hung on a wall in a Florida restaurant. To deter pilferage, the frame was actually screwed into the wall and as such, has evidence of minor puttying and repainting restoration where the two little screw holes were in the frame. The new owner may wish to continue restoration or simply leave the frame as is!
This poster is rarely found in the antiques market today, and due to its striking imagery and coloring, is destined to become a most delightful and decorative room focal point!!
SOLD
A brief history of the Negro League:
African Americans first began to play baseball in the late 1800s on military teams, college teams, and company teams, eventually finding their way to the established professional baseball teams of white players. However, racism and “Jim Crow” laws would force African Americans from these teams by 1900, with black players left to form their own teams.
In 1920, an organized league structure was formed under the guidance of Andrew “Rube” Foster, a former player, manager, and owner for the Chicago American Giants. In a meeting held at the Paseo YMCA in Kansas City, Mo., Foster and several other Midwestern team owners joined to form the Negro National League. Soon, rival leagues formed in Eastern and Southern states, which brought black baseball to major urban centers and to rural countrysides in the U.S., Canada, and Latin America. The Leagues maintained a high level of professional skill and inspired economic development in many black communities.
In 1945, when Major League Baseball’s Brooklyn Dodgers recruited Jackie Robinson from the Kansas City Monarchs, Robinson became the first African American in the modern era to play on a Major League roster. While this historic event was a key moment in baseball and civil rights history, it marked the decline of the Negro Leagues. The best black players began to be recruited for the Major Leagues with their black fans following them, and the last Negro Leagues teams folded in the early 1960s.
SOLD
This sign was once bolted onto the inside of a railroad car, designating the line behind which African Americans must remain-- in the back of the car.
The sign is painted on both sides as follows: the back of the sign is painted with white lettering on a black background and reads, "THIS PART OF THE CAR FOR COLORED RACE". The front of the sign is painted with black lettering on a white background and reads, "THIS PART OF THE CAR FOR WHITE PEOPLE".
The sign is in all-original condition and has some paint loss and superficial rust as noted in photos that does not impact the integrity of the sign and is appropriate to the age and purpose of the piece. Wear to the "white side" of the sign has resulted in the removal of portions of the words "THIS PART".
An utterly phenomenal, extremely RARE, one-of-a-kind, museum-worthy piece of Black American history that may very well be the only one of its kind extant today!
SOLD
Stamped "MADE IN JAPAN" on base, this piece is in near perfect condition with no repairs or cracks. Flaws are as follows: there are some very small paint flakes to the jar base primarily on the back of the black coat as seen in photos. The lid has one very faint flake to the upper forehead that is very difficult to see. There is one small (1/4 inch) surface chip to the very edge of the butler's lower right collar near the bottom of the lid cover. The previous owner colored this in so it is quite hard to see on casual inspection. The coloring actually blends in with the unglazed black paint that lines the rim edges of both the base and the lid. Lastly, there are superficial craze lines visible inside the jar and on its base that do not affect structural integrity. The white spot on the butler's blue pants under his hands is not a paint flake but is a manufacturer's paint omission as it is glazed-covered.
This piece presents and displays very, very well. It is eye-catching and rather visually stunning!
This piece is very rare in today's collectible market, and when found, it frequently is missing the handle! 2005 Book Value for the Black Butler cracker jar in this condition is $850.00.
SOLD
The bodies are one single piece with one hand each on Mammy and the Chef that serve as stoppers for the two pouring spouts. The piece is marked with a "V" for Vinegar and an "O" for Oil on each arm. Very sweet faces!
All original with no breaks, cracks, repaint or repairs, the cruet retains the original corks as well! In truly lovely condition with just one scrape to the red paint under the chef's left arm and some missing paint spots on his right arm. (see photos) Otherwise quite perfect, and displaying very, very well!!! An eye-catching piece!!!
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Fabulous colored illustrations as represented by photos adorn this 19 page book! Ten to eleven darling little poems and/or short stories are written in "dialect", reflective of the Caucasian cultural mores of the period.
Interior pages are in fine condition--they are tightly bound together with the 3 original staples and remain brilliantly colored; front and back covers have loosened from these interior pages, and the covers have been taped along the exterior spine in a failed attempt to keep them attached to the tightly bound interior pages. The covers have edge wear, small edge creases, and surface scuffing with minor surface paper loss here and there (see photos). Additionally, the front cover has a small remnant of an old paper sticker in the upper right quadrant.
A charming addition to one's Black Americana collection!!
SOLD
Measuring 4.75 inches high x approximately 3.25 inches in diameter, the container has slight scuffing to its paper cover and light rust to the base --which in the photo appears more significant than it actually is--- however, there is no problem with structural integrity to the base!
Eye-appealing with its classic "GOLD DUST TWINS" graphic!!
SOLD
In fine condition considering its 90+ years of age with superficial scratches and light superficial rusting as seen in photos. The tin retains its interior paper lining as well as two paper labels on base.
A rarely found piece of Black Memorabilia!!!
SOLD
Measures 9.75 inches high x 6.25 inches wide x 4.25 inches deep. Condition is quite fine with superficial scratches and minor surface rust near the base and on some seams--see photos--no problems to structural integrity!
SOLD
In very fine condition with the expected superficial scratches and rubs to the litho and some light rust spots on the inside bottom of the tin, the tin’s most endearing feature is the image of 3 adorable black children holding the brand name sign: MACHWITZ KAFFEE.
Brightly colored in orange, gold, black and cream, this darling tin is visually striking and displays very well!
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All three tins are in very fine condition with some very small spots of superficial rust and teeny superficial surface scratches here and there as would be expected of any item 70+ years of age. These were stored well over the years and their condition reflects this! The largest tin is in the most pristine. The two black, white and red tins are empty but the green and yellow tin still has a hardened lump of polish inside. The large tin measures 5 6/8 inches high, the small black tin measures 4 1/4 inches high, and the green tin measures 4 inches high.
These tins are not readily found on today’s market in this condition and would provide a handsome and visually striking display either as a group of 3 or as a single piece! A nice addition to the advanced Black Memorabilia collection!
As each tin is priced separately, please email us stating which tin you wish to purchase so that we can customize your order form.
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Louis Armstrong (1901-1971) was the greatest Jazz musician of all time, defining what it was, what it meant to play Jazz. His incredible technical abilities, the joy and spontaneity felt in his works, and his amazingly quick, inventive, musical mind continues to dominate Jazz to this day.
This wonderful piece is a superb likeness of "Satchmo", and it remains in very fine, all-original condition! No chips, cracks, repairs or repainting! Minor and tiny, age-related flakes to the surface of this chalkware piece exist here and there and are entirely appropriate given the statue's 70+ years of age. No maker's mark--just a small encircled "C" for copyright on the back of the base. Bottom of base is covered in an original, soft, felt-like material to prevent statue from scratching display surfaces.
A fabulous piece of Louis Armstrong Memorabilia!!
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Very few of these pieces survive due to the high level of use they encountered. This piece has obviously not seen any use at all as the paint remains absolutely perfect! No chips, cracks, breaks or repairs with very minor crazing and some very, very light beige discoloration at the outer edge of the handle bottom, this fine and very hard-to-find piece of Black Americana is an essential addition for the serious collector! Fabulous detailing!!
Please see the last photo for a companion piece-- an 6 inch Black MAMMY Spoon Rest, 1950's Japan-- also available for purchase and priced separately at $155.00.
SOLD
Each ceramic jar measures approximately 3.25 inches high, and each is marked "JAPAN" on the bottom. They are of one-piece construction retaining the original corks in their bases. Each jar top features a different color which further adds to decorative appeal! Other than age-related crazing to the glaze, each jar is in perfect condition with no wear to the decorative paint!
The original wooden rack which- retains its original "MADE IN JAPAN" sticker on back- measures 9.50 inches long x 4.25 inches high x 2 inches deep and is in very fine condition. The rack features 2 holes for wall-mounting.
This delightful set has obviously seen little use in its 50+ years and would provide the collector with an interesting, visual kitchen display!
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Only 500 of these "Little Girl" thermometers WERE EVER MADE as opposed to the 15,000 Diaper Dan thermometers that can still be readily found in today's collector's market.
Made of pressed fiberwood, she is in MINT condition, retaining her original paper-backed glass thermometer that continues to be quite functional.
This sweet-faced, "Little Girl" Thermometer is rarely seen in the antiques market and is a MUST-HAVE for the serious Black Memorabilia collector!
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In very fine condition, with faint, superficial scratches expected of a 70+ year old metal toy, this wonderful Tuxedoed Dancing Black Man is in working condition! He is stamped "Made in USA" on his back and was made by Buffalo Toy Works. It is operated via a small metal lever at the base that can be jiggled (thus, the name "Jigger" Toy) up and down and back and forth to make Dancing Sambo wave his arms and jiggle his legs!
Measures approximately 6.5 inches high. Maker unknown. Displays wonderfully!
Please note that any white spots appearing in photos are from the camera flash and are not imperfections!
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Sambo sits upon the belly of an alligator whose wide open jaws are ready to take a chomp!!
The piece is stamped “Japan” on the base and has wonderful detail! Even the alligator’s tongue has been painted in! Love that nubby, curly hair!
Please note that any white marks appearing in photos are glare from the flash and are not imperfections!
SOLD
Measuring 5 1/8 inches tall with soap dish attached, Mammy's colors- her deep red dress, mustard yellow shawl, and yellow and red polka dot head scarf- remain vibrant and brilliant with a wonderful old patina! Her face features large, dark eyes and a smiling, red mouth.
The soap dish is designed to be removed, and its anchoring cast iron peg fits into a hole atop Mammy's head. The exterior of the soap dish is cast to resemble a wicker laundry basket and is painted a slightly lighter-toned, mustard yellow.
A delightful, vintage piece of early Black Americana in premium condition!
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Hand-executed by Robert A. Myers of 73 E. Hazeltine Avenue, Kenmore, New York, the figures vary in height from 2.25 to 2.75 inches. The colors are absolutely brilliant and the detailing exquisite with the tiniest of details painted with superb precision, control and great artistry.
"HAND MADE, R. A. Myers, 72 E. Hazeltine Ave., Kenmore, NY" is clearly stamped on the soles of approximately 5 of the figures--yet there is no question that all were executed by the same hand, and it is likely that all figures at one time bore this stamp.
Little is known of Robert A. Myers other than the fact that the street address stamped on the soles of the figures' feet was a private residence, and Robert A. Myers was indeed listed as residing at this address in a 1930 Kenmore (a suburb of Buffalo) telephone directory.
The fabulous figures have been safely stored over these many years in a felt-lined, hardwood, hinged box which undoubtedly has contributed to their most excellent condition!
Truly a RARITY! These wonderful folk art figures would make an outstanding addition to the museum quality Black Memorabilia collection! Not to be missed--these are one-of-a-kind!
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The 30 inch chains are complete and attach to the fancy collar. All parts are in very good condition and the globe CAN hold water. The decorative Victorian hanger and wall bracket make this handsome globe ready to display in your collection.
Showglobes have a rather interesting history in the early drug store / apothecary shop and can be compared to the "Trade Sign" that was hung on the exterior of a business to advertise a product or service. Although there has been much debate over time as to their actual purpose, it has been long thought that the color of the water was symbolic...for example, red and blue water representing arterial and venous blood. Some historians have suggested that showglobes were used as visual communication tools with red water representing plague or disease present in the community, and green water signaling an "all is well" in the community to travelers wishing to stop overnight. It has also been said that show globes in New England apothecaries would be illuminated at night to warn ships in the harbor of sickness, plague, etc.
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The tin bears a copyright date of 1928, and given its fine condition, was obviously safely tucked away over the past 75+ years!
Processed and packaged by the William B. Reilly Company of New Orleans, Louisiana, and Baltimore, Maryland, this fabulous tin retains its original bail handle as well as its original cover! The tin features a vivid graphic of "Mammy Serving Coffee" which was the second style of Mammy graphic used by the company on its coffee tins. Additionally, this tin was part of a special sale promotion as evidenced by the advertising on the lid which is now partially worn off. The advertising reads: "Special 15 Cents Off Offer".
In marvelous condition- an especially lovely and visually appealing piece of vintage Black Americana advertising!!!
SOLD
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.