Circa 1880: The 1878 Harris and Co. Catalog for 111 Kingston Street in Boston, Massachusetts, contains an illustration of this quill vane on page 23 and advertises it as being available in five sizes,including a 26" model. We can find no other companies advertising a quill weathervane without a ball or finial; so the vane is easily attributed to the Harris firm. This vane measures 26" in length and is 12" in height, including its custom stand. It has a striking appearance and a pleasing historic, though not original, surface with remants of old gold gilt and paint. There are no repairs to this classic vane which, because of its rather petite size, will fit just about anywhere in one's home or office.
Bob Zordani and Heidi Kellner: (217) 714-5016, Lexington, Virginia: zandk@zandkantiques.com
