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1 of 253523 objects
Benedetto Pistrucci (1784-1855)
Lesser George hallmark 1834-5
Agate: white on dark grey; gold, enamel | 9.6 x 6.1 cm (whole object) | RCIN 441221
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The Roman gem-engraver Benedetto Pistrucci (1783-1855) arrived in London in 1815. Shortly afterwards he cut a cameo of St. George, naked ‘in the Greek style’ used by George John, 2nd Earl Spencer, for his Garter insignia. In 1817 Pistrucci succeeded Thomas Wyon as Chief Medallist of the Royal Mint and in the same year one of his images of St. George was used for the new gold sovereign. The same image was frequently repeated in his coins for the Royal Mint.
This Lesser George was presented by William IV to his nephew Prince George of Hanover, later King George V of Hanover (1819-78), in 1835. It was acquired after his death by the Prince of Wales, later King Edward VII.
Cameo signed below the dragon PISTRUCCI; mount struck with London hallmarks for 1835-6 and maker's mark WC for William Clutton.
Text adapted from Ancient and Modern Gems and Jewels in the Collection of Her Majesty The Queen, London, 2008Provenance
Presented to Prince George of Hanover by William IV, 1835; acquired by King Edward VII, when Prince of Wales, 1878
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Creator(s)
(goldsmith)Acquirer(s)
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Medium and techniques
Agate: white on dark grey; gold, enamel
Measurements
9.6 x 6.1 cm (whole object)
Other number(s)
Alternative title(s)
Order of the Garter: Sash Badge or Lesser George
