There is now a whole colony of rabbits, in their special “hutch” under the Bacon Rotunda. The blue and white ceramic bunnies inspired by vintage Dedham Pottery bunnies that populate the Meekins are from Library Director Bev Bullock’s family collection. Started by her mother, who became enamored of the pottery bunny after moving to Dedham, Massachusetts, Bev’s collection has grown over the years.
The original Dedham Pottery company, known for its high-fire stoneware with a very fine crackle glaze and distinctive cobalt border designs, was part of the American Arts & Crafts movement, and operated from 1896 to 1943. The bunny was the Dedham Pottery’s distinctive logo.
Although her collection is mostly reproductions, the blue and white bunnies on display are still striking, whimsical, and fun. In the “rabbit hutch” Cabinet of Curiosities you will find large bunnies and tiny bunnies, bunnies in cabbage bowls and bunnies on mugs and soup bowls, bunnies shaking salt and pepper, bunnies in lines and bunnies alone and bunnies just being themselves with the most sweet or comical faces.
Come to the Library and see the dozens of visiting bunnies. Meekins is open Tuesday 10-6; Wednesday 1-7; Thursday 3-6 and Saturday 9-2. Enjoy Bev Lyman Bullock’s collection and the story of its creation. Daria D’Arienzo, Meekins Archivist and bunny photographer. #throwbackthursday; #tbt.
Posted to Facebook 8/3/2023
