My last blog detailed a ‘chance meeting’ with a fellow antiquer named Lea and some of her fabulous collections.
She loves whimsy too, and has some of the most 
charming dog pictures I’ve seen. This lonely little pup draws an “awww” whenever viewed, and the picture with the grouping of dogs actually has a slate back to it. It’s very old but in great shape.
I’ve heard that “Victoriana” has lost popularity with collectors, but not Lea who recognizes the charm of this period. One of her favorite pieces is a framed bride and groom. All original, probably resting on the wedding cake of the lovely couple, well over 100 years ago.
Her favorite of ‘all time’ is her Sleepy Eye Pitchers. For those who are not familiar with the Sleepy Eye items, they bear the image of a 19th century Indian chief with a “drooping eyelid.” The Sleepy Eye Milling co. of Sleepy Eye, Minnesota used his portrait in advertising from 1883 to 1921, offering premiums such as stoneware and pottery crocks, bowls, mugs and pitchers. After 1921, the Mill was out of business and companies such as Western Stoneware began production. These are very hard to find and Lea has been slowly adding to her collection. She shops mostly yard sales, sometimes a flea market, and continues her search for more. The most she has paid for one was $100 and it is valued at well over $700 today.
It was difficult to focus on one area of her collecting, it is very diverse. But when I saw this fabulous purse, I was truly in awe. Having seen numerous beaded handbags by such makers as Whiting & Davis, I was not prepared for this one! The frame of the purse is celluloid with a vibrant coloring, and beading is incredible. The bonus is that it is in pristine condition. Lea had purchased some items from this lady, mostly jewelry, and had seen this purse. The lady declined to sell it but agreed to take Lea’s phone number and when and if she was ready, would give her a call. She waited well over a year, then the call came and the lady sold it to her. She displays it beautifully too.
One of her collections are these buttons. Some are metal, but the majority are bakelite! Very colorful and getting hard to find. She has a fantastic assortment including some animals, a small bowl of cherries and quite a few called ‘waffle’ buttons. The jars are a super way to show them off.
As I prepared to leave her lovely home, I noticed a bench with wrought iron sides. Often called a “radio bench.” This one has cats in play on each side. Lea told me that these were given out at theatres years back and kids could win them to take home! I know I’d never seen one before and found it to be utterly delightful.
Lea has learned how to profit from her hunting trips and proudly admits to being an antique dealer. But she has used her talents to creatively decorate her house with the treasures she chooses to keep, making it a warm and inviting HOME. I thanked her for sharing her collection with me and the CQ readers. While I enjoy her company, I recognize her to be a worthy competitor and know I have to get up pretty early in the morning to win the prize!
