The Toleware Belsnickle
Catalog #S468 — Rare Antique Anton Reiche Mold
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The Artistry
Measuring approximately 4 inches tall, this Belsnickle is a testament to the intersection of European craftsmanship and American folk tradition. The coat is hand-painted with a design deeply inspired by Early American Toleware—the tradition of decorating tinware with stylized botanical motifs and vibrant, layered pigments.
The Design
Using a hand-mixed palette that echoes the aged, muted tones of period tea caddies and document boxes, the design features delicate floral flourishes and traditional folk borders. The intricate engraving of the original metal mold allows for a crispness in form that perfectly complements the precision of the hand-painted Toleware motifs.
Of Special Note: Cast from an exceptionally rare antique chocolate mold by Anton Reiche of Dresden, Germany. Reiche is widely considered the world's premier mold maker of the late 19th century. Each piece is hand-cast in chalkware, hand-painted, signed, numbered, and dated by Kathryn Campbell.