George III Scottish Silver Wine Label Madeira 'Pelican in her Piety' Crest

Robert Gray & Son, Edinburgh c1800
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A rare George III Scottish silver Wine Label of shallow crescent form with acanthus leaf ends, incised for Madeira, with bright cut engraved decoration and also unusually engraved with a crest to the face depicting a ""Pelican in her Peity"".

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 Robert Gray of Glasgow, assayed in Edinburgh c1800.

Sold - £265.00

Condition
In fine condition with no damage or repair. Shortened chain.
Dimensions
H
27 mm (1.06 inches)
W
60 mm (2.36 inches)
Weight
9.50 Grams (0.31 troy ounces)
Country
Scotland
Stock Code
DC1811011B
Medium
Silver