Plaster Cast of Medieval Griffon Relief | Westminster | Circa 1902
Description
Plus
Moins
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Europe (likely England), referencing medieval-style relief
Material: Plaster cast with aged surface patina
Period: Late 19th–early 20th century, with label referencing 1902 (Coronation of Edward VII)
Description
This sculptural plaster cast depicts a powerful winged griffin-like creature in relief, rendered with bold medieval-inspired form and dramatic presence. Deep feather carving, defined musculature, and stylized proportions evoke the architectural ornaments seen on European cathedrals, civic buildings, and royal structures, where mythical guardians symbolized strength and protection.
The reverse retains its original plaster-gauze backing along with a handwritten label reading:
“Plaster Cast from the Annexe to Westminster at the Coronation of King Edward VII. 1902.”
Such casts were commonly created for museum study collections, architectural archives, and commemorative display during the Edwardian period. This example bridges medieval tradition with early 20th-century historical celebration, making it both an artistic artifact and a rare cultural record.
Features
-Relief depiction of a medieval-style winged griffin
-Original early 20th-century plaster cast construction
-Strong sculptural modeling with deep feather and wing detail
-Handwritten label referencing Westminster and the 1902 Coronation of Edward VII
-Plaster-gauze backing with period mounting wire
-Excellent decorative and historical display presence
Cultural Significance
Architectural plaster casts were widely used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries for education, preservation, and commemorative purposes, allowing study of historically important designs when originals were inaccessible. Griffins, long associated with guardianship, vigilance, and royal authority, appeared prominently in medieval carvings, heraldic imagery, and sacred architecture. This cast preserves that symbolic legacy while also reflecting Edwardian-era historical pride and cultural revivalism.
Condition
Surface exhibits age-appropriate wear, including minor chipping, edge losses, and patina variation. Areas of plaster loss confirm its early 20th-century origin. Reverse retains original gauze backing and handwritten coronation label. Structurally stable and highly presentable.
Dimensions (approximate)
Length: 9.75 in
Height: 7.25 in
Age
Approximately 120+ years old (circa 1902)
Learn More
Learn about the royal legacy and coronation of King Edward VII at Westminster Abbey.
Explore more statues, figures, and carved artworks in our collection.
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Europe (likely England), referencing medieval-style relief
Material: Plaster cast with aged surface patina
Period: Late 19th–early 20th century, with label referencing 1902 (Coronation of Edward VII)
Description
This sculptural plaster cast depicts a powerful winged griffin-like creature in relief, rendered with bold medieval-inspired form and dramatic presence. Deep feather carving, defined musculature, and stylized proportions evoke the architectural ornaments seen on European cathedrals, civic buildings, and royal structures, where mythical guardians symbolized strength and protection.
The reverse retains its original plaster-gauze backing along with a handwritten label reading:
“Plaster Cast from the Annexe to Westminster at the Coronation of King Edward VII. 1902.”
Such casts were commonly created for museum study collections, architectural archives, and commemorative display during the Edwardian period. This example bridges medieval tradition with early 20th-century historical celebration, making it both an artistic artifact and a rare cultural record.
Features
-Relief depiction of a medieval-style winged griffin
-Original early 20th-century plaster cast construction
-Strong sculptural modeling with deep feather and wing detail
-Handwritten label referencing Westminster and the 1902 Coronation of Edward VII
-Plaster-gauze backing with period mounting wire
-Excellent decorative and historical display presence
Cultural Significance
Architectural plaster casts were widely used in the late 19th and early 20th centuries for education, preservation, and commemorative purposes, allowing study of historically important designs when originals were inaccessible. Griffins, long associated with guardianship, vigilance, and royal authority, appeared prominently in medieval carvings, heraldic imagery, and sacred architecture. This cast preserves that symbolic legacy while also reflecting Edwardian-era historical pride and cultural revivalism.
Condition
Surface exhibits age-appropriate wear, including minor chipping, edge losses, and patina variation. Areas of plaster loss confirm its early 20th-century origin. Reverse retains original gauze backing and handwritten coronation label. Structurally stable and highly presentable.
Dimensions (approximate)
Length: 9.75 in
Height: 7.25 in
Age
Approximately 120+ years old (circa 1902)
Learn More
Learn about the royal legacy and coronation of King Edward VII at Westminster Abbey.
Explore more statues, figures, and carved artworks in our collection.
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