1868 Deacon/Muller Baseball Figural Statue ("Pitcher")

Exceedingly rare and highly prized baseball figural piece, depicting a pitcher, dating from 1868. The figure, which is crafted in white metal and coated in bronze, was produced by Deacon and Muller, who were among the most prominent artists of their day with regard to baseball figural pieces. (Muller is best known today for his exquisite figural baseball clock produced in 1876.) This piece was costly for the time (it and a companion piece depicting a "striker" were sold as a pair for $16), so despite the high degree of craftsmanship only a small number were sold, with even fewer having survived to the present day. According to an advertising card issued at the time, Deacon promoted his artworks as "Base Ball Statuettes, suitable for Prizes for Matches and Tournaments, Interesting and Beautiful Ornaments for the Parlour." The card also noted that both a "catcher" and "short stop" figural were scheduled to be produced in bronze provided he received 100 orders. The fact that neither has ever been seen probably indicates that his self-imposed order quota was never met, leaving only the pitcher and striker available to collectors today. Lettered in relief on the base of the statue is "K. Muller & J Deacon Pat 1868." A second credit on the underside reads "N. Muller N.Y. N: 539/Patent 1868." The figure displays light surface wear commensurate with its age, including a vintage joint repair near the elbow of the throwing arm. In Excellent condition overall. This particular statue is one of the most highly prized of all nineteenth-century baseball figural pieces and one that would be a worthy addition to even the most advanced nineteenth-century baseball memorabilia or early American figural collection. 7.5 (L) x 3.25 (W) x 10 (H) inches. The substantial size/weight of this item requires that there will be an additional shipping charge for this lot. Reserve $2,000. Estimate (open).

Spring 2020 - Item detail

1868 Deacon/Muller Baseball Figural Statue ("Pitcher")