Design for the Ancient Order of Foresters: "Unity, Benevolence and Concord"
The man standing at the center of this drawing wears the uniform of the Ancient Order of Foresters, a British Friendly Society, or charitable organization established by 1790 in Yorkshire, which expanded over the next century into multiple chapters with over 700,000 members. Supporting elements in the design include a lion nuzzling a lamb, a woman with a shield, a cornucopia and beehive--symbols of peace, strength and productivity. The latin motto, "Unitas benevolentia et concordia," translates as unity, benevolence and concord, and the image likely was intended as the engraved frontispiece of a society publication.
Artwork Details
- Title: Design for the Ancient Order of Foresters: "Unity, Benevolence and Concord"
- Artist: Anonymous, British, 19th century
- Date: 19th century
- Medium: Pen and ink, brush and wash, watercolor and gouache (bodycolor)
- Dimensions: sheet: 10 x 6 1/2 in. (25.4 x 16.5 cm)
- Classification: Drawings
- Credit Line: Gift of the Royal Institute of British Architects, 1961
- Object Number: 61.669.46
- Curatorial Department: Drawings and Prints
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