Q:We acquired an earth closet a few years ago. In our research, we found a patent issued in 1870 for "Improved Earth Closets" by G. Jewett. The mechanics are very interesting. When the seat is raised, a bucket under the hole moves forward. When the seat is lowered, it moves back where dirt is dropped on the waste. We would like to know its value. -- R.W., Ruther Glen

Answer: It is an indoor composting toilet. Reportedly, the Rev. Henry Moule of England invented it and patented it about 1860. Others patented similar earth closets. They all worked by dumping sifted dirt on waste in a bucket.

Basically, they were indoor outhouses. The compartment over the seat contains the dirt and some of it would be dumped when the bucket was pulled back by closing the lid. The concept actually predates Moule's patent.

Earth Closet Co. of Hartford, Conn., may have made this one around 1870 under the Moule patent. They were popular in rural areas and were an alternative to cesspools, the reason given by Henry Moule for his invention.

The earth closet, an oddity that is hard to evaluate, may be best suited for a museum installation. If I dragged one home from an estate sale and showed it to my wife, the earth closet, the dog and I probably would be in the garage.

I am guessing that it would retail for about $50 to $150. It might make a good plant stand. Indoor composting toilets are still being manufactured but are far more sophisticated. For details, check out Envirolet.com.

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Q:I inherited a pair of Capodimonte urns that belonged to my grandmother. They have lion's head covers, are in excellent condition and stand about 20 inches high. I would like to know age and value. -- S.K., Richmond

 

Answer: Capodimonte was royal porcelain that originated in Italy during the 18th century. The factory moved to Spain with founder King Charles III. It later moved back to Italy and closed in the 19th century.

Similar soft paste porcelain has always been produced and became very popular during the 1950s and'60s, especially as lamp bases. Much of it was produced by small potteries, a cottage industry in Italy.

This pair of urns is typical of the later period. Produced during the 1950s, they would retail for about $225. Most early Capodimonte Italian and Spanish pieces are in high-end collections and museums.

Have a question about an antique or collectible? Send a complete description with a clear photograph to Jay Moore, Flair Department, Richmond Times-Dispatch, P.O. Box 85333, Richmond, VA 23293. Or send e-mail to home@timesdispatch.com with a digital image. Photographs will not be returned. The large volume of mail may mean a delay in publishing answers. Sorry, no personal replies.