Beschreibung:

The tag on this coconut reads "From Doylestown, PA area, belonged to Capt. Thomas Brown US Navy (The Tripolitan War 1802-1806) He served on the ships Hornet, Constitution and Parise". Coconut shell measures about 6" in height, excluding the spout and with about a 4" diameter. On top, there is a 7/8" flared tin spout. On each side, there are small mounted brass rings for carrying strap. Around the spout is a relief carved monkey face with ivory eyes. The rest of the shell features relief carved decoration overall and three main scenes including: a city, the foreground with boulders incised with leafy plants; a panoply with clasped hands and below a manuscript which reads "The Constitution" below a flying American flag with laurel branches above and the words "Liberty" and "Fraternity" and on the right side "Equality". The third panel depicts a bunch of grapes. Bottom section with a star shape composed of six large relief leaves. CONDITION: Very good showing a minor crack repair that is very difficult to detect just on the lines of carving below cityscape. A much more patriotic and detailed example than is usually encountered. PROVENANCE: Bonhams & Butterfields: The William H. Guthman Collection, Lot 245, Sold $3,510. DMG