Early Pennsylvania Puzzle Balls and More
If you collect Pennsylvania puzzle balls, pincushions, fabric birds or generally interesting early textiles, this eye-catching group may hold something for you. Each of the seven pieces featured here is described and priced individually. All date from the mid-1800s to the early 1900s and all come from private collections.
Early Hard-to-Find Ball Rattle. Wrapped in fabric and covered with decorative needlework in a geometric design, this small ball rattle dates from the first half of the 19th c. There is miner wear to the fabric as the photos show. But this is a rare and lovely piece. 6” in circumference. $325
Very Large Straw-Stuffed Puzzle Ball with Bird Pincushion. Made of a multi-colored plaid knit, this straw-stuffed puzzle ball is 21-1/2” in circumference at the widest point. Attached to the ball is a 10-1/4” pincushion “dove” with appliquéd blue eyes and embroidery work to indicate wings. As the photos show, there are a few small holes in the fabric of the ball, but the overall condition is very good. A beautiful and unusual piece of work. Fourth quarter 1800s. $700
Plump Velvet Strawberry. There’s nothing quite like the patina of old velvet. This 4-1/2” high fabric strawberry has a miner stain but no rips or holes. Very good condition. $95
Small Bird Pincushion with Yarn “Feathers.” Just 6” long from its yarn crest to its, tail, this colorful pincushion shows a slight bit if age wear but appears to have never been used. Embroidered with the initial “E” on the underside. $125
Medium Blue and Cream Puzzle Ball. The fabric is cotton and the condition is excellent with miner discoloration as the photos shows. 14-1/2” in circumference. $175
Small Puzzle Ball in Excellent Condition. The rosy chintz paired with the butter yellow is a great combination, and the colors are still vibrant after all these years. 11-3/4” in circumference. $125