General Antiques and Collectibles Spring Auction
Lot 143:
Description
C-17727
c. 1930s-1940s; Kirkpatrick Bros. – Walworth, WI Color lithographed advertising thermometer issued by Kirkpatrick Bros., Dairy Cattle Dealers of Cattle Corners, Walworth, Wisconsin. The piece features a Mediterranean-inspired pastoral scene with stone buildings, gardens, and coastal waters, framed within a simple metal border. A vertically mounted mercury thermometer is set to the right side, blending function with promotional display. Regional businesses like Kirkpatrick Bros. often distributed thermometers and calendars as useful advertising giveaways, ensuring their names remained visible in homes, barns, and general stores. This example combines the practical appeal of a household thermometer with the vibrant, escapist artwork characteristic of mid-century promotional goods.
Light surface wear, age toning, and minor oxidation to frame; thermometer intact with red fluid visible.
4" W x 5" H
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