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Ceramics/looking for old Pemberton Neal ceramic molds

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Expert: Leisha Hiester - 12/11/2009


Question

grammas nativity set
In 1964/65 on Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, in the ceramics shop on base, my mother used a set of molds to make 2 beautiful Nativity Sets.  One for her and one for her mother (which I inherited).  The Maker was Pemberton Neal, and the bottoms of the pieces are marked, Pemberton Neal 1961 and P.N. 1961.  Over the years, some of the pieces have become damaged, and we have been looking all over to find the molds to make new ones.  I am including one pic for you.  It is one of the sets.  As you can see, one cow lost his horns, Josephs head has been broken off and mended, the donkey was damaged beyond repair and is missing, as are one camel (with extended neck) and two shepherds. (One kneeling, one standing.) I know it may be hard to judge the set clearly with this one picture and I would be happy to send you more pictures of both sets so that you can see the size of the set, and details of the pieces if that would help.-- We are pretty desperate at this point, and are hoping that you can help us track them down. - We would be happy to purchase or pay for the  use of the molds in question.  -- I am hoping in California... Diana  

Answer
Diana,

How wonderful that you still have this. I have seen this set many years ago. Here's a terrific source for tracking down older molds. If you don't have any luck, write again. I have another idea, but it's a long-shot.

Petro Mold Company (888)796-6635
Email: petro@velocity.net
www.petromolds.com

Best to you & Happy holidays,

Leisha

Leisha Hiester

Expertise

Inquiries about ceramics, pottery, clay and art in general.

Experience

21 years in ceramics and clay, teaching, producing and selling.

Education/Credentials
College, courses, teacher and worked in production studios.

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Private collections

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