St. Paul's Church: Boston

1821-1830

Place madeEngland, Europe

Earthenware

Overall: 1 x 9 1/2 x 6 3/4 in. ( 2.5 x 24.1 x 17.1 cm )

The Dr. Arthur H. Merritt Collection

1961.279

The building was consecrated in 1820.

DescriptionGlazed earthenware molded oval platter with dark blue transfer print decoration of a view of St. Paul's Church in Boston and a border of roses in medallions.

Markingsprinted: in blue ink: "BEAUTIES OF AMERICA/ST. PAUL'S CHURCH/ BOSTON/ J & W RIDGWAY" typed: affixed to back: paper label "St. Paul's Episcopal Church. Built in 1819 on Common Street. The architects were Alexander Parris and Solomon Willard, the latter being also the architect of Bunker Hill Monument. In their design they gave full expression to the Revival of Greek thought which at the time was beginning to make itself felt in the architecture of the country, Willard himself carving the Ionic capitals. The original plan called for a bas relief in the pediment sculptures of the Parthenon, representing Paul preaching at Athens; but the funds proved insufficient, and the temporary stone was destined to become a permanent fixture. Underneath the church were several tombs, one of which being for the time the resting place of the body of General Warren who fell at Bunker Hill. Purchased of the Henry D. Pennypacker auction rooms, Reading, Penna, September 30, 1933, Very rare, Sold $200"

ClassificationsCERAMICS