Wine Label Port Escutcheon with Crest

An extremely rare George II silver Wine Label of elongated chased escutcheon form, decorated with vine leaves, grapes and tendrils, with an integral scrolled cartouche engraved with a crest of a Pelican in its Piety, pierced with bold lettering for PORT. The ""Pelican in her Piety"" is an ancient Christian symbol often used in Heraldry, possibly originating in the Middle East. It usually depicts a female Pelican on her nest, with wings half spread and chicks waiting at her feet with open beaks. She is plucking her breast and allowing the drops of blood to fall into the mouths of the chicks, thus symbolising Christ feeding his flock with his blood.

By Thomas Rush, London c1740. (Maker’s mark only struck twice).

In fine condition with no damage or repair.

57mm x 37mm. 14 grams.

Sold - £550.00