Shearwater Cast Pottery 'Chesty Horse: Pegasus' Figurine

This is a Shearwater Cast Pottery "Chesty Horse: Pegasus" figurine. Its physical characteristics include a sturdy, stylized form of a horse, with dimensions of H. 12-3/4" and W. 12-1/2". The material is ceramic, specifically pottery, with a creamy off-white base glaze. The decoration is applied in a warm reddish-brown and subtle yellowish-gold ochre, giving it an earthenware or terracotta aesthetic despite the glazed finish. Notable features include the detailed hand-painted designs that simulate wings on the flanks, and a feathered or scaled pattern on the hindquarters. The mane, tail, and legs are adorned with broad, vertical stripes, while the face features intricate curvilinear motifs around the eyes and mouth, reminiscent of ancient Greek or stylized folk art. The overall design suggests a mythological creature, specifically Pegasus, due to the wing-like decorations. There are no visible condition issues such as chips, cracks, or repairs, indicating excellent preservation. The surface appears to have a soft sheen, typical of glazed pottery. Manufacturing details include its origin from Shearwater Cast Pottery, designed by Walter Inglis Anderson, and decorated by Patricia Anderson Findeisen, suggesting a collaborative and artist-driven production. The style period aligns with mid-20th century studio pottery, reflecting the unique artistic vision of the Anderson family associated with Shearwater. The craftsmanship is evident in the precise casting and the meticulous application of the painted designs, showcasing a high level of artistic skill and pottery expertise.

Upon my virtual examination of the Shearwater Cast Pottery 'Chesty Horse: Pegasus' figurine, designed by Walter Inglis Anderson and decorated by Patricia Anderson Findeisen, I am impressed by its apparent excellent condition. The dimensions of H. 12-3/4" and W. 12-1/2" suggest a substantial piece. Visually, there are no detectable chips, cracks, or repairs, and the creamy off-white base glaze with reddish-brown and yellowish-gold ochre decoration appears vibrant and intact. The hand-painted details, particularly the wing-like designs and intricate facial motifs, contribute significantly to its artistic merit. Shearwater Pottery, especially pieces designed by Walter Inglis Anderson and decorated by Patricia Anderson Findeisen, holds a strong niche in the market due to its artistic legacy and limited production runs. Comparables in the market for similar Shearwater 'Chesty Horse' figurines, particularly 'Pegasus' models, consistently achieve high prices at auction and through specialist dealers. The demand for these iconic pieces remains robust among collectors of American studio pottery and Southern decorative arts. Its rarity, stemming from the specific artists involved and the historical context of Shearwater, further enhances its desirability. Factors significantly impacting this value include the iconic nature of the 'Pegasus' motif, the combined artistic contributions of Walter Inglis Anderson and Patricia Anderson Findeisen, and especially its pristine apparent condition. The 'FULLY MARKED' detail is critical for provenance and authenticity. However, it is crucial to note the limitations of appraising from images alone. While visually authentic, full authentication requires physical inspection to verify the tactile quality of the glaze, confirm the absence of hairline cracks or subtle restorations not visible in photographs, and examine the integrity of the base marks. Provenance documentation, such as original purchase receipts or exhibition history, if available, would further solidify its value. Scientific testing for material composition is typically not necessary for established pottery like Shearwater but could be employed in cases of extreme doubt for a very high-value piece.