https://emuseum.gardinermuseum.com/internal/media/dispatcher/15321/fullPlatter with the Death of General James Wolfe (1727–1759)ca. 1826-28Jones and SonsOverall: 1 9/16 × 20 1/4 × 15 15/16 in. (4 × 51.5 × 40.5 cm)Earthenware with blue transfer print from the “British History” seriesThe Barbara and James Moscovich Collection of Canadian Historical ChinaG13.15.241Blue 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.19th and early 20th Century CeramicsCeramics for the Canadian Market[]European CeramicsEnglish Earthenware1853745799EnglishImpressed 20. Stamped British History, Death of General Wolfe, Jones and Sons