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Plate with Masonic Symbols
ca. 1830
James and Ralph Clews (1815-1834)
England: Staffordshire, Cobridge
Transfer-print earthenware
overall: 10 1/2 x 10 1/2 x 1 in.; 26.67 x 26.67 x 2.54 cm
Special Acquisitions Fund
75.26

Blue and white transfer-print plate with the names of the first fifteen states along the edge. Flanking the center medallion, which features a building, are figures of Justice and Freedom. "Justice" wears a Masonic apron with square and compasses symbol and holds an oval portrait of George Washington. "Freedom" looks down on a farm. Flowers and fruit fill in the design. There is an impressed mark on the reverse: a crown and lettering, "WARRANTED STAFFORDSHIRE CLEWS."


This plate features a blindfolded figure of Justice wearing a Masonic apron and holding an oval medallion of George Washington. On the right, Freedom looks down upon a prosperous farm. Around the edge are the names of the first 15 American states, flowers, and fruit. In the 1820s, these images symbolized the hope of peace, unity, and plenty in America.