Platter with the Death of General James Wolfe (1727–1759)
Manufacturer
Jones and Sons
(English)
CultureEnglish
Datec. 1826-28
MediumEarthenware with blue transfer print from the “British History” series
DimensionsOverall: 1 9/16 × 20 1/4 × 15 15/16 in. (4 × 51.5 × 40.5 cm)
MarkingsImpressed 20. Stamped British History, Death of General Wolfe, Jones and Sons
DescriptionBlue and white platter from the British History Series.
This scene commemorating the Death of General Wolfe, Sept 13, 1759 was popular for a half-century and represents an early view of Canada on pottery. It was portrayed by several artists and potteries but the most famous image was by historical painter, Benjamin West. Josiah Wedgwood was the first to adapt the West image on tableware and he used the print by William Woollet available in 1776. The portrayal depicts a Pieta composition and portrays Native Americans and horses to heighten the narrative. This platter is more stilted than Wedgwood’s interpretation. The engraver added a horse and rider, and depicted the Native American standing rather than kneeling.
This scene commemorating the Death of General Wolfe, Sept 13, 1759 was popular for a half-century and represents an early view of Canada on pottery. It was portrayed by several artists and potteries but the most famous image was by historical painter, Benjamin West. Josiah Wedgwood was the first to adapt the West image on tableware and he used the print by William Woollet available in 1776. The portrayal depicts a Pieta composition and portrays Native Americans and horses to heighten the narrative. This platter is more stilted than Wedgwood’s interpretation. The engraver added a horse and rider, and depicted the Native American standing rather than kneeling.
Credit LineThe Barbara and James Moscovich Collection of Canadian Historical China
Object numberG13.15.24
Classifications
European CeramicsSub-classification
English EarthenwareStatus
On viewArtist / Maker: Podmore, Walker and Co.
1842-1859
Object number: G13.15.11
Artist / Maker: Unknown Artist
c.1840
Object number: G13.15.44
Artist / Maker: Francis Morely and Co.
1845-1848
Object number: G13.15.29a-b
Artist / Maker: J. and T. Edwards
1840-1851
Object number: G13.15.22a-b
Artist / Maker: Podmore, Walker and Co.
1842-1859
Object number: G13.15.14
Artist / Maker: Podmore, Walker and Co.
1842-1859
Object number: G13.15.15
Artist / Maker: Podmore, Walker and Co.
1834-1859
Object number: G13.15.10
Artist / Maker: Unknown Artist
c.1840
Object number: G13.15.45