Pewter charger

Physical description

A pewter charger engraved with wriggle-work. In the centre are the Stuart royal arms for Charles II, encircled by the garter, with supporters, surmounted by a helmet, crowned, and having above it a lion and the initials 'CR'; Beneath is the royal motto 'Dieu et Mon Droit' and the inscription 'Vivat Rex Carolus Secundus Beati Pacifici 1662'. The rim is engraved with branches of oak, roses, tulips, the sun and the owner's initials 'TGA' within a wreath.

Place of Origin

England, Great Britain (made)

Date

1662 (made)

Artist/maker

Unknown (production)

Materials and Techniques

Engraved pewter

Marks and inscriptions

'Vivat Rex Carolus Secundus Beati Pacifici' 'Long Live King Charles II of Blessed Peace'
'Dieu et Mon Droit' 'God and My Right'
Coat of arms The Stuart royal arms for Charles II
'G' over 'T A' (owner's initials)

Dimensions

Diameter: 569 mm

Descriptive line

Pewter, England, 17th century

Labels and date

This is one of a series of display chargers made to commemorate either the Restoration of Charles II or his marriage to Catherine of Braganza. All are decorated with broad designs in wriggle work incorporating roses, acorns, tulips and the Royal Arms. These large chargers were principally intended as display objects and show little sign of use. This charger was owned by a married couple whose initials 'T & A G' are engraved within a wreath on the rim. Later owners have stamped their own initials on the rim.
Gallery 55 Case 11

Materials

Pewter

Techniques

Engraving (incising)

Collection code

MET