Collecting Canines
Collecting Vintage Chalkware Dogs
Collecting Vintage Chalkware Dogs
Chalkware Everywhere
As we meander through favorite antique shops and markets, we often come across Chalkware Dogs. Rarely do we see two together or a group gathering of these funky fidos. Maybe, if we are lucky, we might see one at one end of the market and another at the opposite end.
Chalkware Color and Fun
They are colorful and often glitzy, some bordering on garish. Others are beautifully molded and painted and are hard to tell from their ceramic counterparts. Are they valuable? Are they collectible? Are they amazing decorative pieces for your home? Oh yes, they are!
Here’s what we know about them.
The Colorful Collie
The Regal Staffordshire
The Beautiful Borzios
The Classic Scottie
History
Let’s begin by saying that there were two distinctly different periods in history when Chalkware was popular. The first began in the late 1700’s, and continued through the early 1900’s. During this time, it was used to make inexpensive replicas or reproductions of the much higher priced Staffordshire figurines imported to the states from England.
It is believed that these figurines were created by the Amish, using plaster of Paris, or gypsum, a mineral composed of calcium sulfate dehydrate. The chalkware figurines created during the early period are now considered Folk Art, and are highly collectible.
The second time chalkware became popular, was during the Great Depression (1929-1933.) Called “Carnival Chalkware,” it got its name because of its use in making carnival prizes that one could obtain by winning a midway game.
Chalkware Scottish Terrier Dog Playing Saxophone
Carnival Chalkware Dogs
These figurines were quite different from their more formal ancestors. They needed to “fit in” to the colorful, glitzy, and fun atmosphere of a 1920’s – 1940’s carnival. So it shouldn’t be a surprise they were made to be just that… brightly colored, sprinkled with glitter, and often silly.
In the 1920’s, they were often airbrushed, and their expressions often reflect a “smudging” of details that adds to their comic appearance. This newer form of chalkware is also considered highly collectible, but in this case, for their irresistible, kitschy charm.
Although it may not yet be considered historically significant, I do believe there is a third group of chalkware dogs that are well worth mentioning. These were created beginning in the 1940’s.
Chalkware Cocker Spaniel
Unlike the early figurines, or the “prized” carnival dogs, these vintage dogs are not immediately recognized as chalkware pieces. Their molds are very smooth, without edge lines, and they are painted all over, including on the backs or undersides. Their paint is applied so flawlessly that they are easily mistaken for ceramic. Many of these dogs have the addition of glass eyes, and they are often glazed to protect their paint. It is easy to fall in love with these chalkware dogs. They add a unique, whimsical character to any canine collection and can be quite budget-friendly.
Caring for Vintage Chalkware Dogs
Just a few facts to guide you in the collection and care of vintage chalkware dogs… In general, chalkware dogs are collected more for their character than for their condition. Chalkware is very easily chipped, and their coloration is prone to fading because they were rarely glazed. Some wear and tear is a true sign of their provenance, and can add to their value. Glitter found sprinkled on the dog dates it post-1930.Do not clean your chalkware. A gentle dusting is fine. Do not rub them, or use any water or cleaning solutions of any kind on them. Finally, do not repair, repaint, or restore them. Imperfections are considered a very big part of their charm.
The Chalkware Dog Collection
Have I piqued your interest in collecting vintage chalkware dogs? I once saw a photo of a dozen or more carnival chalkware dogs displayed in a tall, black, open shelved bookcase. The combination of colors, glitz, and humor created a decorative statement that was amazing. Such a dramatic display may not suit your home or decorative style. Yet a single dog on a table next to a tall vase of flowers or a small grouping on a “shabby chic” dresser just might give your room and your mood the lift you’ve been looking for!
Thanks For Reading!
It’s my great pleasure to introduce these chalkware dogs that are currently in our shop.
