|
|
|
James Deponceau was born in Brockway Pennsylvania, the orignal home of the Wendell August Forge. His original name was Deponcean, one of the many Italian families in Brockway. Starting with Wendell August Forge in 1929, he left to work with Arthur Armour in 1934. He remained there until WW II. He produced his own work in Grove City, PA until 1952 when he relocated to Chautauqua New York. His work is carried on by his son Joseph and grandson Robert. He is profiled on page 82 of the book Wendell August Forge, 75 Years of Artistry in Metal written by Bonita Campbell in 1998.
This 9 1/2 inch wide hammered aluminum plate in the Bittersweet pattern is the Deponceau version of the popular Wendell August Forge pattern. Perhaps Deponceau made the original mold. I am not sure at this time. With early notched edges and just the slighest traces of the black carbon smoke highlight decoration, this signed piece is in very very good condition with only minor wear. It is signed DePonceau Chautauqua, N.Y and 100% Hand Made. It is quite light in comparison to some of the same size Wendell August Forge pieces. Most likely from the 1950s when Deponceau moved his shop to Chattaqua New York and his pieces no longer carried the Grove City Mark. Add it to your hammered aluminum collection today. A practical and useful piece |
|
|
|
|
Click Here For
Top of Page
|
|
