Our Premier Autumn Auction | Session I | October 21, 2025
Tue, Oct 21, 2025 10:00AM EDT
Live Auction
Lot 85
Fine Molded and Gilt Copper Massasoit Weathervane
Estimate: $30,000 - $50,000
Sold for
$30,000
Sold Price excludes BP
Bid Increments
| Price | Bid Increment |
|---|---|
| $0 | $25 |
| $100 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $200 |
| $3,000 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $2,000 |
| $50,000 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $10,000 |
attributed to J. Harris & Co., Boston, probably third quarter 19th century, full length three dimensional form in molded copper depicting Native American Massasoit in traditional garb, holding an arrow with a cast iron head, 31 in. high (including modern stand), 30 in. long
Provenance: Private Collection, Chicago, Illinois
Note: Massasoit (chief of the Wampanaog Indians, a tribe that lived in what is now southern Massachusetts), was a popular subject for weathervane makers, and similar examples appear in the catalogs of several companies. Examples with the details seen in this example are typically attributed to Harris & Co., as their catalog illustrates a very similar form. An example closely related in detail sold Sotheby's New York, 30 September 2010 lot 19 for $122,500. Another example is illustrated in Miller, The Art of the Weathervane, p. 134.
https://www.sothebys.com/en/auctions/ecatalogue/2010/important-americana-n08665/lot.19.html
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Private Collection, Chicago, Illinois
Later gilding with wear, areas of verdigris, scattered small dents, headdress appears to have been very slightly pushed in, with small surface crack behind right ear； one side of face with more verdigris, iron arrowhead with surface corrosion, some possible old resoldering at joints. Weathervanes are notoriously difficult to vet for authenticity and condition. In our opinion, this is a period weathervane in good condition with later gilding. Please refer to detailed photos and/or preview in person, and make your own assessment. Note - Brunk Auctions makes every effort to offer accurate and thorough information, but encourages prospective bidders to inspect items in person whenever possible. Condition statements are provided as a courtesy for general guidance and should not be considered complete or definitive. They do not represent a warranty or assumption of liability by Brunk Auctions. Certain condition issues may not be specifically noted in the report but may be visible in the accompanying photographs, which are considered part of the overall condition report. Please refer to our Terms of Sale for complete information and contact us for additional photos or information as needed.
