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Peter Derr (1793-1868) was active in Berks County, Pennsylvania as a braizer, coppersmith and founder. His father, Johannes Derr was a pewterer, and was known to have collaborated frequently with Johann Christoph Heyne. Derr's first known masterpiece, the Staff of David gallows lamp, was completed in 1818 at the age of twenty-five. For many years he was involved with the founding firm of Haag, Kline & Company in Bernville, Pennsylvania. Derr is most recognized for his hand wrought fat lamps (see lot 617). Among the last items he is known to have made are the pewter-top canteens, knives and needles for the Berks County Regiment during the Civil War. The lots that follow (616-621) are all related to Peter Derr and where noted are illustrated in James Spear's renowned volume regarding the prestigous family, House of Derr (Meyerstown, Pennsylvania: the Church Center Press), 1949.
A SMALL BRASS AND WOOD HAND-PISTOL
PETER DERR (1793-1868), TULPENHOCKEN TOWNSHIP, BERKS COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA, CIRCA 1850
Details
A SMALL BRASS AND WOOD HAND-PISTOL
Peter Derr (1793-1868), Tulpenhocken Township, Berks County, Pennsylvania, circa 1850
Brass pistol with latch, inscribed "P.D." and wooden handle
4in. long
Peter Derr (1793-1868), Tulpenhocken Township, Berks County, Pennsylvania, circa 1850
Brass pistol with latch, inscribed "P.D." and wooden handle
4in. long
Literature
James F. Spears, The House of Derr (Meyerstown, Pennsylvania, 1949), plate 81