£3,000 - £5,000
George III (1760-1820, a unique gold and jewelled medallion (64x36mm/17.24gm), c. 1791.
Issued to Captain John Polhill (1757-1828) as commendation for quelling Birmingham riots. Described in a clipping as follows: [the medallion] does the artist much honour. The following emblematic devices are admirably arranged on a beautiful oval white stone, of about seven inches in circumference. In the centre, an obelisk is raised with pearls and gold ? on the upper part of which is painted a crown, with G.III.R. and, at the top, a dove with an olive branch. On the pedestal is inscribed the following motto, Quia in Auxilium advolaveris. On each side of the obelisk are most curiously disposed various military trophies ? on one side, a drum, a trumpet, a cannon, a battle-axe, a spontoon, &c.; ? on the other a sword, a musket, a civic wreath, a halberd, &c.; over which flows the Union-flag. The stone is set in gold, and a most curious border painted round the glass which covers the devices. The tout ensemble presenting a charming display of art, elegance, and ingenuity. A very delicate and beautiful medallion, kept safely within a contemporary fitted case in the family for generations. Some of the floral decoration, as well as the name plate reading ?TO CAPT. POLHILL OF THE 15TH DRAGOONS?, has fallen away and now loose within frame, otherwise the medallion remains in much the same condition as it was originally made. An important and unique piece of British military history.
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