Executed in Germantown, Pennsylvania, circa 1902.

Collection of Charlotte Dinger;
Fred Giampietro, New Haven, Connecticut, September 5, 2005

Areas of wear and some inpaint in the saddle and saddle blanket. Some minor losses consistent with age and use of object..
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Although many primitive-looking carousels were built prior to Gustav Dentzel's early entry into the production of these machines, he is widely known as the founder of the American carousel industry. His background was in cabinetry but he had leaned woodcarving from his father Michael as he grew up in Germany. On Dentzel's first carousel in 1867, he made only a few horses with the remainder being a variety of animals. Over the course of several decades he developed a very realistic style of carving, following the actual look and feel of both wild and domesticated animals. This giraffe is an excellent example of the realism that Dentzel brought to his work.