Images(2)

Plate

Dateca. 1763

MediumTin-glazed earthenware (delft / delftware)

DimensionsOverall: H: 1 3/16" Dia: 8 15/16" (3 × 22.7cm)

Credit LineMuseum Purchase, Pamela J. and James D. Penny, Ann C. Berry, Linda Baumgarten, Leslie B. Grigsby, Liza and Wallace Gusler, Ronald L. and Mary Jean Hurst, Kimberly Smith Ivey, Martha Katz-Hyman, Angelika R. Kuettner, Joseph I. and Judith A. LaRosa, Bruce and Barbara McRitchie, Janine E. Skerry and Ed Moreno, Merry A. Outlaw, and J. Thomas Savage, Jr. in memory of John C. Austin.

Object number2025-77

DescriptionPlate: tin-glazed earthenware circular plate with broad rim and shallow curved cavetto; trimmed footring; three trivet touch points on the reverse of the rim. Painted in blue with a central three-quarter portrait of John Wilkes within a circular roundel delineated by two concentric broad and narrow bands; “Wilkes . And . Liberty. No.45 .” painted in an arc below the portrait and following the outside curve of the roundel. The rim painted with a blue trellis border between concentric blue bands (a single band at the outside and a double band at the inside).Label TextAn outspoken member of the British Parliament and keen political satirist, John Wilkes became known for his stances on Parliament reformation, free speech, and support of the American colonies. He is most famous for the 45th issue of his publication The North Britain which attacked George III and ultimately led to Wilkes’ arrest and a charge of seditious libel. The accusations garnered Wilkes even more public support which is reflected in the material culture of the day from prints and tokens to glass and ceramics such as this very rare delft plate.

The depiction of Wilkes on the plate is after a three-quarter portrait of him engraved by Johann Sebastian Muller in 1763. A copy of the print resides in the collections of the British Museum.Inscription(s)“Wilkes . And . Liberty. No.45 .” painted in blue in an arc below the portrait and following the outside curve of the central roundel.Mark(s)None