Monday, December 22, 2014

Eli Brown Drum, ca. 1833

Lot #: 166

Paint-decorated Field Drum, Eli Brown, Windsor, Connecticut, c. 1833, the drum with lapped-seam maple shell applied with a distinctive brass tack geometric pattern of a circle and diamonds around the vent hole, and with polychrome-painted American eagle, shield, and stars, which was possibly painted after the drum was purchased; the interior bearing a paper maker's label reading "ELI BROWN, DRUM MANUFACTURER, HAS CONSTANTLY FOR SALE BASS AND SNARE DRUMS/MADE IN THE NEATEST AND BEST MANNER/Windsor (Wintonbury Soc.) Conn. 1833 No. 1712."; with red-painted hoops, later ropes and leather ears, accompanied by a later pair of drumsticks, (imperfections), wd. 13 1/2, dia. 17 1/2 in.

Note: Eli Brown descended in a family which settled in the Windsor, Connecticut, area, and whose ancestors served in the Revolutionary War. The Browns of Wintonbury were mainly subsistence farmers and it is proposed by some that a few members used their additional skills of coopering to make drums, some possibly carried in the Revolutionary War. The drum business operated until the mid-19th century by Benjamin, Moses, William, and Eli (the most prolific of the four) Brown. It is reported that over 100 Brown-made drums are held in museums, fife and drum corps, and historical societies.
Estimate $800-1,200

Missing 13 tacks, paint loss on both hoops, losses to edge of top hoop, varnish on paint-decorated area on shell is darkened and alligatored, probable replaced heads, the bottom head has a loss and a 1 in. tear, and is slightly separated from hoop about 10 in. around edge, it also shows evidence of a previous snare device on the bottom drum head, later ropes and leather ears (which were put on upside down).

The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.

Price Realized $2,040