Description
Just moved into a new house and this was left behind in the backyard. Was going to just pitch it, but seeing they can be valuable. Can anyone tell the age of it? I'm assuming the older it is, the more valuable. I see many versions online, but not many with white pants/red shirt and not sure if that matters.
Any help would be appreciated!
Re: Lawn Jockey - Jocko
Jocko .... There are stories were that this was actually a young black boy / slave (10 yrs old) whom served under Washington and froze to death on the river, while tending his horses. His name was supposedly Jocko Graves.
This piece here is of the earlier viriety and most likely made of cast. In the mid to late 1800's these pieces where used as hitching posts to tie the reigns of the horse to it. Thus the handle where the reigns would be tied. I often thought that these were to hold a lamp so I guess I learned something new. These pieces have become offensive to black people which is understandable. Many have been painted over. Your piece looks like original colors to me. During the period many jockeys whom raced where of black desent.
Jocko - The Jockey Hitching Post
Circa estimate 1880 US Origin
Est Conservative Value:: $400 - $600 US ... Often these pieces sell for more and they are highly collectable ... I would insure it under your house insurance for $800.US
Amazing piece of American history with a story... be it fact or fiction to remember a young boy whom passed or not. RIP Jocko ...
Thanks kindly for sharing ...
Peace and Blessings Always ..
Thomas J. Gordyn
Certified Professional Appraiser - AIOA
Proud Member of The American Numismatic Association