Freaksware

  Johnny Eck "The Half Boy" Candle Stick Holders

Johnny Eck was an American man, born with a normal upper body and truncated lower body. When clothed, he appeared to possess only half a body, from the rib cage up. He walked on his hands, and was as strong, nimble and capable as he was charming, handsome and popular. He joined the circus as a young man, trademarking his feats of strength, agility and balance with an ever-present tuxedo and bowtie.

He lived happily in the circus, and retired from performance in the 1980s. He returned to his hometown to settle down, but sadly discovered that what had once been a nice, middle class neighbourhood had become a rough, neglected one. Johnny became a recluse, fearful of leaving his home. He was traumatized in the 90s, near the end of his life, and when thugs broke in and sat on Johnny’s chest while ransacking his home. He was quoted after the attack, as saying “If I want to see freaks, I just have to look out my own window.”

Title: Freaksware
Origin: Radiant Dark, 2009: Elegant Corruptions

Material: porcelain or earthenware, glaze

Dimensions: 4" to 8" high

Price: $60-$68

Available at MADE