19th Century Gilt Copper and Zinc Eagle Weathervane, Attributed to J. L. Mott, Ca. 1875–1895

Details

Description

Pieces like this don’t last. Deeply historical, eagle motifs surged before, during, and right after the Civil War. Expertly crafted, … Read more Pieces like this don’t last. Deeply historical, eagle motifs surged before, during, and right after the Civil War. Expertly crafted, this eagle has the hallmarks of rarity.

This gilt eagle weathervane bears hallmarks of J.L. Mott, ca. 1875–1895. The molded copper body features embossed feathering across the chest and serrated primaries along the trailing wings (23” wide). The compact torso, upright chest, and forward-projecting head match documented J.L. Mott forms.

The head, cast in zinc, preserves sharp sculptural detail — defined brow, beak, and open mouth — joined to the copper neck by a soldered collar. Wings rise steeply to a rounded apex before tapering, creating a silhouette distinctive to Fiske eagles.

The eagle perches atop an elongated seamed copper sphere, joined with collar and rod assembly consistent with documented Mott construction. Traces of original gilding remain, contrasting with natural verdigris and oxidation, evidence of outdoor service.

Highlights
23” wide, 12” height (body and ball), 21" deep (with feather)
Gilt copper and zinc eagle vane, ca. 1875–1895
Strongly attributed to J. L. Mott
Copper body with embossed feather work
Cast zinc head with detailed features
Original gilding traces with verdigris patina
Perched on elongated copper sphere mount

Condition: Gilding traces present; verdigris and oxidation across surfaces; seams intact; weathering consistent with age. There is an area of pushed-in metal around the neck, strictly cosmetic and not affecting structural integrity. Additionally, there is some separation along one feather line of the arrow, consistent with age and use, but overall the vane remains solid and well-preserved


Provenance: Attributed to J. L. Mott 1875–1895. See less