This beautiful miniature baptismal parian-ware font by Minton, circa 1862, is sometimes referred as a ‘pocket’ font or ‘travelling font’. Made in the 19th century when outbreaks of disease meant that clergymen had to visit ailing patients. Particularly heartbreaking were the high rates of infant mortality, these travelling fonts were used to administer a dying baby’s baptism so that the grieving parents might find comfort.
This particular one was produced in 1862 by Minton based on their Nottingham St Mary font they had produced in 1850.
Rare to find in such excellent condition, this pocket font has a Gothic Revival style, being based upon the aforementioned church. With its original case and bearing an inscription dated 1897, this is a rare and lovely piece. The inscription states that this was given to a Mr. J.P. Cowie by Reverend J. Marshall M.A. in 1897; historical documents from the period show that Mr. Cowie was a successful businessman in Feilding, New Zealand at the time.
