A Monumental Late - Victorian Cast Iron Royal Coat of Arms
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 t
...hat confirms its long history.
Historical Significance
The Bridge Connection: Identical to the monumental crests adorning the lattice-work towers and central span of the Victoria Bridge, Hereford.
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.
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.
Specifications
Material: Solid Cast Iron (Estimated weight 120kg+)
Period: c. 1897–1898
Dimensions: Width: 140cm | Height: 90cm | Depth: 14cm
Provenance: The G S May Esquire Private Collection, London
Condition: Excellent structural condition. No damage. Original paint with age-appropriate weathering and character.
Display 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.
**Collection Only by Appointment**
Antique ID Number (AIDN): SA1198612
Dateline of this antique is Victorian
Height is 90cm (35.4inches)Width is 140cm (55.1inches)Depth is 14cm (5.5inches)
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