Artwork Page for Figure of Britannia

Details / Information for Figure of Britannia

Figure of Britannia

c. 1756
maker

Longton Hall Porcelain Factory

(British, Staffordshire, 1749–60)
decorator

Vauxhall Porcelain Factory

(British, 1751–1764)
Culture
England, Staffordshire
Medium
soft-paste porcelain
Measurements
Overall: 28 x 24.5 x 13.7 cm (11 x 9 5/8 x 5 3/8 in.)
Credit Line
Bequest of Mary Warden Harkness 1917.626
Public Domain
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Location
203A British Painting and Decorative Arts
Print
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Did You Know?

The creation of this triumphant personification of the nation was likely spurred on by Great Britain’s conflict with France in the Seven Years’ War (1756–63).

Description

In this depiction of Britannia, the figure is surrounded by symbols of England’s power and military might. On one side, she and a lion, another symbol of Britain, support a shield adorned with the Union flag. Below it lay motifs associated with war such as armor, a trumpet, and a flag. On her left, Britannia presents a medallion to the viewer as she rests her feet on a globe, a symbol of the nation’s territorial aspirations. The portrait may depict the reigning king, George II (1683–1760), or Prince Frederick Louis (1707–1751), his recently deceased heir.
A soft-paste porcelain figurine depicts Britannia reclining on armor, her body angled toward our right while looking left. She wears a pink bodice, leaving her left chest bare, and a floral white drape. With a small, pointed shape atop her head, her right hand rests on a red, white, and blue shield. Her left arm leans on an oval portrait of a man, while a bearded head sits among weapons at the base.

Figure of Britannia

c. 1756

Longton Hall Porcelain Factory, Vauxhall Porcelain Factory

(British, Staffordshire, 1749–60), (British, 1751–1764)
England, Staffordshire

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