Thank you for your interest in my chalkware figurines. In case you are not familiar with the term "Chalkware", let me explain:

Chalkware is not made of chalk as it's name suggests, the term refers to
ornamental objects that were once made of a lime based material. It was inexpensive and easily worked, but not very durable. In it's natural state it does have a chalk like appearance, hence the name, 'chalk-ware'. Today, we continue the use of natural mineral materials, but add another natural mineral to the mix, gypsum. Gypsum, when cast into an object and hardened, does have the same chalky white  appearance and texture of the early pieces, but is more durable than the early chalkware mixtures.

Chalkware appeared in America as early as 1768 in the form of inexpensive copies of the very desirable and expensive Staffordshire ware. Chalkware works of art were often created in small workshops during the 18th and 19th centuries. About 1860 there was evidence of mass production in New York state. The finished pieces were decorated with oil paint or watercolor.

Animals, birds, arrangements of fruit, and even famous people were portrayed. Some of the more popular figures were: dogs, cats, lions, sheep and pigs. Another popular item was a 'watch stand' in which a pocket watch could sit and be used as a miniature clock.

My chalkware pieces begin as an original sculpture in clay, created by myself. The original sculptures are inspired by antique chalkware pieces and images from American folk art and European paintings as well as my own folk art paintings. This chalkware is original, handpainted and copyrighted artwork. After the original sculpture is completed, a mold is constructed and gypsum is cast in it to create a duplicate of the original sculpture. When the chalkware piece is taken from the mold, it must be hand finished to smooth the surface and prepare it for painting. The chalkware figure is then painted, distressed and antiqued to resemble an old piece of chalkware. No two pieces ever look exactly the same. Each bears my signature and the date of completion. All of the chalkware is made in our studio in Virginia, USA.

The collection is growing and I will have more pieces to offer next year. If you would like to be on my mailing list for new editions, some of them limited, please let me know.

You may view some of my larger chalkware works by following this link.

Sharan J. Mason