Item 51

Current bid:  $180

View:  Main (Large)  View 2 (Large)  View 3 (Large)  View 4 (Large)  View 5 (Large)  View 6 (Large) Item: 51  Description: U-989 Threadless Confederate Insulator. These were made by the Sothern Porcelain Company in Kaolin, South Carolina under contract to the Confederate Army. The factory burned down in 1864 and was never re-opened. This example was dug at the factory site; and is “as found”. There is no restoration. In addition to the deep fissures (not fractures) from the firing, it also exhibits heavy “crazing”. View 1 shows a small, thin, flake at the top left and another at the top right. In View 2, there’s a large skirt flake near the base at the center of the picture. View 3 shows a chip at the top right prong. View 4 shows the heavy “crazing”, which in porcelain is considered attractive character. View 5 looks into the threadless pin hole. Note the slot at the right. A slotted pin was used to help keep the insulator in place. View 5 is a better view of the top wire groove. This insulator was possibly discarded because of the deep fissures that occurred during firing. Perhaps the clay was formed too wet?  Grade B . Collectors have nicknamed these “milk bottles” because of their shape and color. For more Confederate items, look for listings under the alphabetical heading “CONFEDERATE” later in this auction. Estimate: $350 - $400  Open: $180 Current bid:  $180