Decorative

A MONUMENTAL LATE - VICTORIAN CAST IRON ...

A rare and well-preserved example of VICTORIAN from c. 1897--1898, noted for its craftsmanship, material quality, and historical relevance.

This is an exceptional and imposing late-19th-century architectural masterpiece, measuring a massive 140cm wide. This specific casting is an identical match to the heraldry found on the Grade II listed Victoria Bridge in Hereford, which was erected in 1897 to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria. Cast in heavy iron with a deep, high-relief profile, the piece features the heraldic Lion and Unicorn supporters, the central Royal Shield, and the iconic mottos: "Honi Soit Qui Mal y Pense" (Shame be to him who thinks evil of it) and "Dieu et Mon Droit" (God and my right). Unlike smaller commercial ''Royal Warrant'' signs, this crest was engineered for major public infrastructure. Its scale was designed to be viewed from a distance, and its heavy-duty construction was built to withstand the elements for over a century. Retaining its original polychrome paint, the piece displays an authentic, ''honest'' patina that confirms its long history.\n\nHistorical Significance\n- The Bridge Connection: Identical to the monumental crests adorning the lattice-work towers and central span of the Victoria Bridge, Hereford.\n- Foundry Excellence: Likely cast by a premier Victorian foundry such as Macfarlane's of Glasgow (The Saracen Foundry), known for providing the ornamental ironwork for the British Empire''s most famous bridges.\n- Monumental Scale: At nearly 1.5 meters wide, its presence is best understood by its proportion to modern objects---standing over 12 times the width of a standard beverage can.\n\nSpecifications\n- Material: Solid Cast Iron\n- Period: c. 1897--1898\n- Dimensions: Width: 140cm | Height: 90cm | Depth: 14cm\n\nCondition: Excellent structural condition. No damage. Original paint with age-appropriate weathering and character.\n\nDisplay Note: The reverse features the original heavy-duty structural casting and integral mounting lugs. Given its weight, this piece is a perfect ''statement'' artifact for a grand interior, a substantial garden wall, or an architectural collection.\n\nCollection Only by Appointment

— Details

Reference

SA1198612

Origin

c. 1897--1898

Period

VICTORIAN

Dimensions

W 140cm × H 90cm

Weight

120 g

Provenance

The G S May Esquire Private Collection, London

Condition

Excellent — see description