Lot 21
JACOBITE BRONZE PRINCE CHARLES EDWARD STUART OAK SOCIETY MEDALLION
THOMAS PINGO (1714 - 1776), STRUCK 1750
Fine Furniture and Works of Art
Auction: 2 May 2018 at 11:00 BST
Description
Obverse; bust of Prince Charles facing right
Reverse; stricken oak with shoots appearing from base with REVIRESCIT above and 1750 in exergue
Dimensions
Diameter: 34mm, weight: 15.2g
Footnote
Note: Much debate has surrounded the production of the Oak Society medallions. It was for some time suggested they were produced to commemorate the visit of Prince Charles, in the upmost secrecy, to London and the Society in 1750. However, this appears unlikely as there is documentary evidence of the commission of these by 1749, when it is unlikely plans had been made.
The Oak Society was one of many pro-Jacobite clubs which sprung up after the defeat at Culloden. They met in London at the Crown & Anchor on the corner of Arundel Street and the Strand.
The use of such obvious Jacobite icons for a medallion in use in Britain is unusual and the portrait of Charles (although not named) is clear. When combined with the Stuart stricken oak and motto they are very iconic representations. The stricken oak has been seen in many uses by the Jacobites/Stuarts, notably in glasses, and spoke greatly of the cause.
References:
Woolf, N., 'The Medallic Record of the Jacobite Movement', item 62
Eimer, C., 'British Commemorative Medals, and their values', item 625