As the school year ends and Ohio’s children are released from the confines of the classroom, the freedom of summer brings to mind the free spirited nature of folk art - which, by definition, has been created by untrained, unschooled makers. With simple tools and everyday materials, generations of inspired plain folk have produced an array of impressive, and often whimsical, works of art. Considering the multitude of choices available (from wood to glass, fabric, paper and more), it seems improbable that we could identify a medium that may surprise you - but, here it goes.
Sewer tile is a porous clay pipe that has been molded, glazed and fired for the utilitarian purpose of plumbing water and waste underground since at least 4,000 BC, and in the U.S. since the 19th Century work of building America’s infrastructure began. During the industrial revolution, sewer pipe was big business in Ohio, thanks to our plentiful deposits of the dense red clay that is most useful for making high quality clay pipe. Workers in Ohio’s sewer pipe factories took a few liberties with “extra” clay, creating wonderful works that they gave as gifts or took home for personal use. Production of “end-of-day” pieces peaked in the first quarter of the 20th Century, and have become a niche collectible today.
Inspired by the fine ceramics of English potters, sewer tile makers commonly produced dogs and lions in the “Staffordshire” fashion. Another popular form was the tree trunk, usually formed as a vase, but also as lamps. Unusual examples we have seen at Garth’s range from eagles, squirrels, a humidor and even chairs. The rich red-brown glaze and folksy design lend these works to a variety of decor preferences - and, clearly, make terrific conversation starters.
This sewer tile lion was modeled after earlier, reclining lions made popular by artists in Mogadore. It sold to a lucky bidder in Garth’s January 2013 Americana Auction for $295.
This pair of sewer tile lamps are in the popular tree trunk sewer tile form and were made early in the 20th Century. They sold at Garth’s for $325.
In the Americana antiques industry, we often joke that if you want to increase the value of an object, put an eagle on it. America’s patriotic fascination certainly affected the value of this sewer tile eagle when it sold at Garth’s in January for $700.
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