Rare 19th-Century Pontiled US Customs Wool Storage Glass Canister - Benghazi

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Rare 19th-Century Pontiled US Customs Wool Storage Glass Canister - Benghazi:
$125.00

Amazing, unusual, and very rare item here, a pontiled clear glass tall labeled canister used for storing and identifying wool at American ports of entry. This is what I learned from the dealer from whom I acquired this. In the 19th century all wool entering the country had to be authenticated so unscrupulous dealers couldn\'t claim a good provenance for their own wool. As a result the U.S. government had these jars blown and a set of them was given to each of several designated ports of entry for wool into the U.S. Each set was stored in a case which resembled a barber ship mug shelf with a cubby hole for each mug; wool entering the country was compared to the wool samples in the labeled jars to authenticate its provenance. This jar was purchased at an sale at a Customs House some 30 years ago. Fantastic and very rare item that belongs in a museum. 12\" tall, 3 7/8\" in diameter, rolled lip, pontiled base, circular paper label. In excellent condition to boot - just needs some cleaning to remove scattered cloudiness to glass, light dampstaining to label. No chips or cracks. Please check my other listings for other glass canisters labeled for other wool types.

This piece has both classic primitive style and history. Reproduction \"primitives\" in high-end gift stores would likely carry a price near mine - but this is authentic and very rare, with great provenance and character. Showcased as a glass collectible, it looks great; as a centerpiece, it\'s fantastic.

Buyer to pay by credit card using Paypal. MA residents please add 6.25% for sales tax.