Collection Online as of February 5, 2023
Figure of Britannia
maker
Longton Hall Porcelain Factory
(British, Staffordshire, 1749–60)
decorator
Vauxhall Porcelain Factory
(British, 1751–1764)
Soft-paste porcelain
Overall: 28 x 24.5 x 13.7 cm (11 x 9 5/8 x 5 3/8 in.)
Bequest of Mary Warden Harkness 1917.626
Location
203A British Painting and Decorative Arts
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.
Longton Hall Porcelain Factory
The first porcelain factory in Staffordshire, it was run by a salt-glaze potter, William Littler, from c. 1749 to 1760 and produced both decorative and useful wares in rather heavy soft-paste similar to that of Chelsea. Dishes, sauce-boats, teapots and small tureens composed of simulated overlapping leaves were a specialty. The Longton factory closed in 1760. (Dictionary of Decorative Arts. 1977, p. 493)
Vauxhall Porcelain Factory
English porcelain manufactory, 1751-1764. The Vauxhall porcelain factory was run by the partnership of Nicholas Crisp, a merchant and owner of a jewelry shop in London, and John Saunders, a delftware potter.