James and Ralph Clews
America and Independence
c. 1818-1834
Physical Qualities
Lead-glazed earthenware, transfer-printed in cobalt blue, 1 x 13 7/8 x 16 1/2 in. (2.5 x 35.2 x 41.9 cm.)
Credit Line
Bequest of George C. Jenkins
Object Number
1930.65.211
Celebrating American independence, this English platter made for the American market is dominated by large figures of blindfolded Lady Justice, holding a medallion of George Washington, and "America", personified as a kneeling Indian maiden wearing a tobacco leaf headdress. Fifteen ripples in the banner surrounding the rim identify the states that had joined the Union by 1792. The mansion in the central reserve is probably a generic English scene.
On View: American Wing Second Floor, Scott 05A/Case 2
