Pa. German Shaving Basin
c. 1936
Frances Lichten’s watercolor study preserves a charming slice of Pennsylvania German folk history, depicting a ceramic shaving basin from two distinct angles to document its design. The top-down view reveals a rim inscribed with archaic German text in Fraktur script—beginning with 'Wenn ich mich thu rasieren' (When I shave myself)—encircling a central motif of scissors and ribbon-like numbers, likely dating the original vessel to 1793. The side profile showcases the vessel's earthy yellow-green glaze adorned with bold brown floral patterns and a flattened rim section designed to rest comfortably against a customer's neck. Created around 1936, this piece serves as a meticulous historical record of the vibrant folk art tradition, capturing the humor and craftsmanship of everyday objects used by the Pennsylvania Dutch community.
- Technique
- Watercolor