Antique Cast Iron Black Lawn Jockey
Introduction
An antique cast iron black lawn jockey is a statue or figure that was popular in the United States during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The lawn jockey is typically depicted as a young, African-American boy dressed in jockey attire, holding a lantern, and standing at attention. These figures were popular lawn ornaments in the South and were used to indicate that the homeowner was friendly to the Confederate cause. Today, these statues are highly collectible and are sought after by antique enthusiasts and collectors.
History
The origins of the lawn jockey are uncertain, but it is believed that they were first introduced in the United States during the early 1800s. Some historians claim that the lawn jockeys were modeled after the African-American jockeys who worked on Southern plantations. Others believe that the statues were based on the legend of Jocko Graves, a young African-American boy who served as George Washington's personal servant during the Revolutionary War.
During the 19th and early 20th centuries, the lawn jockey became a popular lawn ornament in the Southern United States. The statues were typically placed in front of homes or businesses and were used to indicate that the homeowner was friendly to the Confederate cause. The lantern that the statue holds was originally used to guide travelers to the home or business during the dark hours of the night.
Design
The lawn jockey is typically depicted as a young, African-American boy dressed in jockey attire. The figure is usually made of cast iron and stands at attention, holding a lantern in one hand and sometimes holding the reins of a horse with the other. The statue is often painted black and features exaggerated facial features that were common in racist stereotypes of the time.
Collectibility
Antique cast iron black lawn jockeys are highly collectible and are sought after by antique enthusiasts and collectors. The value of a lawn jockey depends on several factors, including its age, condition, and rarity. Some of the rarest lawn jockeys are those that were made during the Civil War era and those that feature unique designs or variations.
Controversies
The use of the lawn jockey as a symbol of support for the Confederate cause has led to controversy and criticism in recent years. Many people view the statues as symbols of racism and oppression, and some communities have banned their display in public spaces. In response, some collectors have started to paint their lawn jockeys in different colors or remove the lantern from their hands.
Caring for Antique Cast Iron Black Lawn Jockeys
To care for an antique cast iron black lawn jockey, it is important to keep the statue clean and dry. If the statue becomes dirty or rusted, it can be cleaned with a mild soap and water solution and then dried thoroughly. It is also important to protect the statue from extreme temperatures and weather conditions, as exposure to moisture or extreme heat can cause the cast iron to rust or deteriorate.
Conclusion
The antique cast iron black lawn jockey is a unique and controversial piece of American history. While the statues were once used as symbols of support for the Confederate cause, they are now highly collectible and sought after by antique enthusiasts and collectors. Whether or not you agree with their historical significance, there is no denying that these statues have a fascinating story to tell.
