PLATE.

TheBarber-Surgeons’ Company has at various periods in its history possessed large quantities of plate, a great deal of which is now unfortunately lost to us, most of it having been parted with during the troublous times of the seventeenth century, when the money demands made upon the Company necessitated its sale. We have however, been fortunate in preserving some very distinctive and beautiful plate, among which are no less than three Royal gifts from Sovereigns of England, viz., Henry VIII, Charles II, and Anne.

Throughout our Minutes are numerous references to gifts and purchases of plate; some of these will be found elsewhere in this work, and the following extracts in particular referring to this subject, are additional examples.

14th December, 1557. The same daye beyng The xiiijthdaye of Descember in AnoDñ 1557 and fourth and fyfte yeares of the Raignes of Kynge Phyllippe and Quene Marys Most Noble gracꝭ It ys Condescended and Agreed by the mrand Govˀnors and wththassent of all the Assystaunce of the howse whose Names are before Nomynated and Wrytten That MrThomas Vycary shall paye and dyscharge the Debtꝭ of the howse wchrest unpayde and the saide MrVycary shall have the plate of the Crafte in pawne or pledge Untyll suche tyme as the sayde sum̃es of monye be un to hym Repayde agayne.7th December, 1581. It was agreed that the som̃e of xllishalbe diffrayed and laid owte of the stock of the howse to buy plate viz. one nest of pots one nest of booles, and in v gilt spones to make up one dozen, and in exchange of a silver pot geven unto the Companie by MrGeorgeCorrons300who depˀted his lief beinge mrof the companie.

7th December, 1581. It was agreed that the som̃e of xllishalbe diffrayed and laid owte of the stock of the howse to buy plate viz. one nest of pots one nest of booles, and in v gilt spones to make up one dozen, and in exchange of a silver pot geven unto the Companie by MrGeorgeCorrons300who depˀted his lief beinge mrof the companie.

10th March, 1599. Richard Larden on being admitted to the Livery presented one “beaker of silver pˀcell gylt.”

15th April, 1600. John Robson being made free made a similar gift, as also, 3rd June, 1600, did Walter Meeke on the like occasion.

16th August, 1602. This daie JohnIzard301presented to this Courte one litle columpne salte wtha Cover of silver and guylte and prayeth to be discharged from bearinge the office of Mrof this Companye which guyfte was loveinglye accepted and his requeste willingely graunted.

19th July, 1603. Nicholas Kellaway (Assistant) presented two standing cups of silver, to be discharged the office of Steward of the Mayor’s feast.

8th November, 1604. This daie it is ordered that MrJohnsons302Cupp and Cover the three Beakers and MrSprignalls303and MrShirlockꝭ Cup and Cover shalbepˀntly304altered unto such servisable plate as the Mrsshall thinke fyt.

31st May, 1608. The executors of Nicholas Kellaway delivered to the Wardens “one uprighte Bowle of silver duble gylt.”

9th February, 1612. This daie it is agreed that the som̃e of xlior xx mˀkes shall be layed out to bye 3 cupes wththe name of MrBird305thereon to be engraved.22nd August, 1614. This daie Peter Thorney brought in & delyvered unto this Court two spout pottꝭ the one all guilt the other pˀcell guilt of the valew of twentie poundꝭ wchwere gyven by the last will of MrThomasThorney306deceassed wchpottꝭ were thanckfullie receaved.

9th February, 1612. This daie it is agreed that the som̃e of xlior xx mˀkes shall be layed out to bye 3 cupes wththe name of MrBird305thereon to be engraved.

22nd August, 1614. This daie Peter Thorney brought in & delyvered unto this Court two spout pottꝭ the one all guilt the other pˀcell guilt of the valew of twentie poundꝭ wchwere gyven by the last will of MrThomasThorney306deceassed wchpottꝭ were thanckfullie receaved.

4th October, 1614. Mr. RalphBovey307gave, in lieu of fining for three Warden’s places, “one fayre quart spout pott pˀcell guilt.”

12th February, 1616. Mr. Isaac Allen gave a standing cup and cover value 20 nobles to be excused coming on the Livery or bearing any office.

2nd July, 1622. Edward Kellet gave a “fayre mounsier bowle guilt” to be discharged of his place in the livery.

17th October, 1622. Mr. Gillam gave “three saltꝭ white” of the value of £12 10s.

9th November, 1628. Bartholomew Vanderlashe, a German professing Surgery, gave a standing cup and cover gilt weighing 23 ozs.

20th June, 1629. It is alsoe ordered that there shalbe made fower Garlandꝭ of silver enamelled garnished and sett forth after the neatest manner according to the discretion of the present Governors for the choise of new Maisters and the coste thereof to be borne of the stock of this house. (See illustrations of these on pp.239,379and422.)2nd December, 1630. This daie this Court takeing into their considerations of that affectionate love of MrJohn Bancks late Cittizen and Mercer of London deceased, the sonne of MrThomasBancks308heretofore an ancient Maister of this Companie, not onely expressed in his liefe tyme to the poore of this Companie, by giveing xxsyearely for ever, but also at the tyme of his death to the generalitye of this Companie soe large and bountiful a legacy viz; One bason and ewer double gilt with his armes of gentrye, the Mercers armes, and our Companies armes embossed thereon, xxlifor a dinner for the livery on the daie of his funerall and our Companies armes in a small round frame depicted in glasse, doe in all loveing and thanckfull respective gratitude to soe free and liberall a benefactor, order that the pˀnte Mrsor Governors shall at the chardge of this house take course that the said MrJohn Bancke his picture be forthwith procured from the executors and carryed to MrGreenebury and be taken forth and depicted in a frame in the self same manner as that picture is and hung up in some convenient place in our Hall, that thereby so free and memorable acts of so liberall a benefactor may not be overwhelmed in oblivion but be pˀpetually had in remembrance and eternized to all posteritie.

2nd December, 1630. This daie this Court takeing into their considerations of that affectionate love of MrJohn Bancks late Cittizen and Mercer of London deceased, the sonne of MrThomasBancks308heretofore an ancient Maister of this Companie, not onely expressed in his liefe tyme to the poore of this Companie, by giveing xxsyearely for ever, but also at the tyme of his death to the generalitye of this Companie soe large and bountiful a legacy viz; One bason and ewer double gilt with his armes of gentrye, the Mercers armes, and our Companies armes embossed thereon, xxlifor a dinner for the livery on the daie of his funerall and our Companies armes in a small round frame depicted in glasse, doe in all loveing and thanckfull respective gratitude to soe free and liberall a benefactor, order that the pˀnte Mrsor Governors shall at the chardge of this house take course that the said MrJohn Bancke his picture be forthwith procured from the executors and carryed to MrGreenebury and be taken forth and depicted in a frame in the self same manner as that picture is and hung up in some convenient place in our Hall, that thereby so free and memorable acts of so liberall a benefactor may not be overwhelmed in oblivion but be pˀpetually had in remembrance and eternized to all posteritie.

9th April, 1632. “A gilt beere boll and cover” weighing 201⁄2ozs. was presented by Mr. Dominic Lomeline’s309executors.

16th August, 1632. Mr. ThomasBorne310having bequeathed £6 13s.4d.to the Company to buy a piece of plate, it was ordered that “there shalbe a faire silver salt white, with scroules of the new fashion bought and his name ingraven thereon.”

2nd January, 1635. Mr. Robert Allott, Doctor in Phisick of St. John’s Coll: Cambridge and free of the Company, gave a large round silver salt white with three scrolls, and with his arms and an inscription engraved thereon.

1636. The Company having spent large sums of money in the erection of the Theatre, and being short of cash, an order was made to sell the whole of the Yeomanry’s Plate, excepting a beer bowl the gift of Mr. James Kent.

1637. It having come to the knowledge of the Court that Mr. Alexander Baker (Master 1622) had bequeathed to the Company a cup and cover which was withheld by his executors, a suit was commenced against them.

19th May, 1637. This daye was presented to this Court by a suite & decree made in his Matꝭ Court of Requestꝭ one standing Cupp and Cover gilt of MrAlexander Bakers gift weighing 131 ounces.19th May, 1637. Alsoe according to orders of former Courtꝭ of Assistants the plate viztWmKelletts cupp 21 oz. one cupp & cover Vanderlash 23 oz. & halfe. 3 beere bolls dropps 38 oz. 3 flatt gobletts 61 oz. & halfe. 4 tankerds 92 oz. & a halfe. 1 salt & cover Izard 9 oz. 4 standing cupps & Covers yeomanrye 102 oz. being all guilt plate amounting to 347 oz. at 5s4dpˀ oz. cometh to 92li10s8dAlsoe one white cupp Turner 9 oz. 1 white cupp Harding 5 oz. 1 white cupp Bostock 10 oz. 3 beere bolls vaughan 26 oz. 3 white beakers 31 oz. 3 white salts Guilham 40 oz. 1 white boll Lakin 10 oz. 3 wine bolls white 16 oz. & a halfe being white plate weighing 149 oz. 3 quarters at 4sxjdthe ounce was sould for 36li16s4dSoe that the whole money received for the plate that was sould cometh to in toto 129li07swchsale is by this Court confirmed & ordered ytthat money received shall be imployed towardꝭ the buildingꝭ now in hand.31st October, 1642. Whereas heretofore by Order of the Lords & Com̃ons in Parliament assembled Our Company was proporc͠oned to pay and lend 800liat 8lipˀ cent towards and for nothing else than the releife of Ireland. Upon which our Company did humbly certifie the Lord Maior of the Citty of our inability to pay any part of the said 800liYet for that the present occasions forceing for presente Releife It was Ordered That 400lishould be taken up at Interest and payd over into the Chamber of London for that and noe other purpose. And that now the Company would take up such a quantity of money but cannott obteyne soe much, It is now ordered That the Kings Cupp and Cover shalbe kept, And that the Mas& Wardens shall take out all our plate and view it and see which of it is fitt to be sold and that every parcell of that plate which shalbe sold a patterne or fashion of it shalbe drawne in paper and the perticuler Letters Writeings or Graveings shall likewise be written on that paper. To the intent that when the said ffoure Hundred Pounds with the Interest at 8lip. centum shalbe repayd the said Plate shalbe made againe in the same ffashions & writeings upon them as now they are which this Court doth order shall fully and really be performed accordingly when the said 400liand Interest shalbe repayd.

19th May, 1637. This daye was presented to this Court by a suite & decree made in his Matꝭ Court of Requestꝭ one standing Cupp and Cover gilt of MrAlexander Bakers gift weighing 131 ounces.

19th May, 1637. Alsoe according to orders of former Courtꝭ of Assistants the plate viztWmKelletts cupp 21 oz. one cupp & cover Vanderlash 23 oz. & halfe. 3 beere bolls dropps 38 oz. 3 flatt gobletts 61 oz. & halfe. 4 tankerds 92 oz. & a halfe. 1 salt & cover Izard 9 oz. 4 standing cupps & Covers yeomanrye 102 oz. being all guilt plate amounting to 347 oz. at 5s4dpˀ oz. cometh to 92li10s8dAlsoe one white cupp Turner 9 oz. 1 white cupp Harding 5 oz. 1 white cupp Bostock 10 oz. 3 beere bolls vaughan 26 oz. 3 white beakers 31 oz. 3 white salts Guilham 40 oz. 1 white boll Lakin 10 oz. 3 wine bolls white 16 oz. & a halfe being white plate weighing 149 oz. 3 quarters at 4sxjdthe ounce was sould for 36li16s4dSoe that the whole money received for the plate that was sould cometh to in toto 129li07swchsale is by this Court confirmed & ordered ytthat money received shall be imployed towardꝭ the buildingꝭ now in hand.

31st October, 1642. Whereas heretofore by Order of the Lords & Com̃ons in Parliament assembled Our Company was proporc͠oned to pay and lend 800liat 8lipˀ cent towards and for nothing else than the releife of Ireland. Upon which our Company did humbly certifie the Lord Maior of the Citty of our inability to pay any part of the said 800liYet for that the present occasions forceing for presente Releife It was Ordered That 400lishould be taken up at Interest and payd over into the Chamber of London for that and noe other purpose. And that now the Company would take up such a quantity of money but cannott obteyne soe much, It is now ordered That the Kings Cupp and Cover shalbe kept, And that the Mas& Wardens shall take out all our plate and view it and see which of it is fitt to be sold and that every parcell of that plate which shalbe sold a patterne or fashion of it shalbe drawne in paper and the perticuler Letters Writeings or Graveings shall likewise be written on that paper. To the intent that when the said ffoure Hundred Pounds with the Interest at 8lip. centum shalbe repayd the said Plate shalbe made againe in the same ffashions & writeings upon them as now they are which this Court doth order shall fully and really be performed accordingly when the said 400liand Interest shalbe repayd.

The following entry is curious from the fact of a blank having been no doubt purposely left in the Minutes. The Company, who had been already plucked by the Parliament, evidently feared violence in that quarter, but were afraid to put it on record, and therefore very prudently left a hiatus in the Minutes.

24th May, 1643. Whereas this Company is assessed at 8lipˀ weeke for 3 moneths which they are noe wayes able to pay In regard wee are soe much in debt and that the Hall may be preserved from violence of. . . . . . . It is now Ordered That the plate in the Hall that is not guilt plate shalbe by the Mrand Wardens delivered over at the best rate to deliver soe much amounting to 96li.

By the Wardens’ Accounts it appears that plate was sold to the extent of £94 16s.0d.

29th April, 1645. On reference top. 140, it will be seen that no less than 1,120 oz. of plate was pawned to MrsCrosse.

29th April, 1646. The Mr& Wardens acquainting this Court That the Companye’s plate is redeemed from MrSteele at his request who married MrsCrosse to whome it was formerly pawned in her Widowhood and is now in the Treasury. This Court doth think it not convenient to be kept in thehouse311and doth order that it be delivered into the hands of MrJohnBrowne312for the better secureity of the 200lithis Company oweth him and of the 100limore which he hath promised by MrWarden Browne to lend the Company at vjlipˀ ceñtn pˀ anñ.

14th May, 1646. The plate was pawned to Mr. John Browne for £300 at 6 per cent.

29th April, 1647. It was ordered that it should be redeemed, and it was on the 17th May following all brought back to the Hall.

7th December, 1648. The plate was again pawned to Mr. John Browne, of Westminster, for £250.

19th March, 1649. The Court were so severely pressed by Assessments for the Army, and being unable to borrow any more money under the Company’s seal, resolved after much deliberation to absolutely sell Plate to the value of £300.

19th July, 1649. Our Mracquainted This Court That upon sale of the Companyes Plate MrEdward Arris bought King Henry the Eighths Cup and Cover and hath freely given it againe to this Company.

1890. The following plate is now in the Company’s possession:

A handsome standing silver gilt Grace cup and Cover (261/2ozs.) presented by King Henry VIII in 1540 in commemoration of the union of the Barbers with the Surgeons. This cup is elaborately chased and enriched with badges of the Tudor Rose, Portcullis, and Fleur-de-lys; the cover is surmounted with the Crown Imperial underwhich are the arms of France and England quarterly, with the lyon and greyhound as supporters. There are four bells pendant from the cupwhich are referred to by Pepys asfollows:—

Among other observables at Chyrurgeon’s Hall we drunk the King’s health out of a gilt cup, given by King Henry viij., to the Company, with bells hanging at it, which every man is to ring by shaking after he hath drunk up the whole cup.—Diary, 27th February, 1662–3.

GRACE CUP.

This cup although it has been stolen, pawned and sold, yet remains to us, one of the most precious relics of our past. It appears by the Wardens’ Accounts, that in 1669 John Knight, Serjeant-Surgeon, who was Master, had the cup repaired and a case made for it; Serjeant Knight was again Master 1677–8, when he caused a plate to be fixed within the cover with thisinscription—

Henrici R. Munificentia Ne Posteris Ignota Maneat Johannis Knight R.C.P.3131678.

In the bowl of the Cup is an outline engraving of the old coat of the Barbers, impaling the cognizance of the Surgeons in one shield (seep. 435).

King Charles II in 1676 presented us with a very handsome and unique parcel gilt standing cup and cover, surmounted by the crown imperial, and having within the same the Royal arms, supporters and crown (68 ozs.). This Cup is known as “The Royal Oak Cup” (commemorative of the King’s escape at Boscobel), its stem and base representing the trunk and roots of an oak tree; the bowl or upper part is surrounded with oak leaves, branches, wreaths of flowers, escallop shells, and pendant acorns as bells from shields. The Company’s arms are engraved on one shield, on another the crest, on the third is the following inscription:—“Donum Munificentissimi Regis Caroli Secundi Anno 1676,” and on the last shield—“Impetrantibus Chirurgis RegiisJohanne Knight Chirurgo Regis Principali et Jacobo Pearse Eodem Anno Societatis Magistro.”

KING CHARLES’ CUP, QUEEN ANNE’S PUNCH BOWL AND ATKINSON’S PUNCH LADLES.

This James Pearse, surgeon to the King and the Duke of York, was Master in 1675, and his wife will be well remembered as one of Samuel Pepys’ friends and gossips.

Queen Anne in 1704 presented the Company with a fine and massive punch bowl (160 ozs.) bearing thisinscription:—

Societati Chirurgorum Londin: Ob fidem et diligentiam In examinandis Chirurgis In Classe Regia merituris Dono dedit Serenissima Regina ANNA PrincipumOptima 1704: Impetravit Carolus Bernardus Arm. Chir. Reg. Pr. Hujus Societatis Magister.

Four large loving cups and covers. These are all of similar design though of different sizes, the covers have each a handle formed as an effigy of a Roman soldier, and each cup bears the Company’s arms engraved thereon.

MARTIN BROWNE’S AND SIR JOHN FREDERICK’S LOVING CUPS.

1st. Martin Browne’s cup (45 ozs.). He was an eminent Surgeon and Master in 1653; on one side is engraved a shield quarterly, 1st and 4th three Estoilles, 2nd and 3rd three Escallops and a Horn, “Charisma Martini Browne Armigeri Nuper Senatoris Ciuitatis Londinensis & Præfecti Societatis Barbitonsõr & Chirurgõr 1653.”

2nd. Thomas Bowden’s cup (38 ozs.). He was third Warden 1654. On one side is engraved a shield quarterly, with a lyon passant on the first quarter only. The motto of the Company is misspelt thus, “de Pricipiencia dei,” and the cup bears this inscription, “Ex dono Thomæ Bowdeni Chirurgi et hujus Societatis Gubernatorum quarti Anno Dni. 1654.”

3rd. Sir John Frederick’s cup (38 ozs. 10 dwt.). He was Master 1654 and 1658, and Lord Mayor 1662. This cup is engraved with Sir John’s shield, on a chief three doves, and the Company’s motto is again misspelt. The inscription is, “The guift of John Fredricke Alderman and of This Societie Master Anno Dñi 1654.”

4th. Thomas Bell’s cup (65 ozs.). On one side is engraved Mr. Bell’s Coat of arms, on a chief three Bells, and there is this inscription, “The Gift of Thomas Bell Chirurgion to yeWorshipfull Company of Barbor Chirurgions London July 28th1663.”

Four silver goblets or wine cups (33 oz.). Each isinscribed—

The guift of Edward Arris Chirurgion Master of the Company Anno Domini 1651.

COLLINS’ FLAGON, MONFORDE’S HAMMER AND ARRIS’ CUPS.

A silver flagon with handle and spout (54 oz. 10 dwt.) the gift of Thomas Collins, Master 1648. The arms engraved are, on a bend three martlets and a crescent for difference all within a bordure ermine; on the other side are the Company’s arms with the motto misspelt. The inscriptionis—

Thomas Collins Artis Chirurgicæ Professor Peritissimus, ut Symbolum Amoris venerabili Chirurgorum Societate hoc donauit.

Five covered tankards, the first three having the Company’s arms engraved thereon.

1st. Perrott’s tankard (23 oz.). “The guift of Abraham Perrott.” He was admitted to the freedom 5th July, 1614, and gave the tankard in March, 1640. (See head piecep. 492.)

2nd. Gray’s tankard (37 oz. 2 dwt.). “Ex dono Georgij Gray,” no date.

3rd. Dorrington’s tankard (39 oz.). “Ex dono John Dorrington Chirurg. 2oAprilio Ao1663.”

4th. Fothergill’s tankard (24 oz. 15 dwt.). “The Gift of Thomas ffothergill to the Worshipfull Companie of Barber Chirurgions,” no date. (See head piecep. 492.)

5th. Ruston’s tankard. “The Gift of WmRuston, Master 1883–4.”

A handsome silver rose water dish (74 oz. 15 dwt.) with the Company’s arms engraved thereon, and inscribed “Ex dono Robertij Andrews Chirurg. 20 Aprilis Ano1663.”

Another large rose water dish (68 oz.) inscribed “Ex dono Tho. Gill.” Mr. Gill was admitted to the freedom 1st February, 1670.

Two large soup tureens, the gift of William Kippax, Master 1782.

Eight silver sauce boats, engraved with the Company’s arms and purchased in 1766.

Eight curious sauce ladles, with enriched fluted handles (probably late 17th century).

Six antique salt cellars.

Four small antique pepper castors.

A large and quaint sugar castor the gift of Robert Emerton, Master 1790, and another one the gift of David Lamb, Master 1794.

A Silver tea urn (83 oz. 4 dwt.) inscribed “Presented by William Wood, Clerk to the Company, 1790.” This elegant urn, which is oviform in shape, has been engraved in “Cripps’ College and Corporation plate” as a typical example. (See head piecep. 492.)

About two dozen charming tea spoons, elaborately chased and engraved (circa 1730); these are also illustrated by Mr. Cripps.

A dozen antique shell pattern salt spoons.

Two curious and finely worked sugar tongs.

A fine old massive spoon (circa 1690), engraved “Ex dono Jonathan Cheynell.”

An antique wine strainer, and another, the gift of Robert Douglas, Master 1800.

A great quantity of spoons, forks, ladles, etc., not specially deserving of notice.

A case of fish knives and forks, the gift of George Austin, Master 1882.

Two old-fashioned silver cruet stands.

A silver punch ladle with ivory handle, and a guinea of 1714 in fine preservation inlaid, inscribed “The Queen Anne’s Guinea, Given by John Atkinson Esqrone of the members of the Court Septr1846.”

Another ladle with ivory handle, inscribed, “Presented to the Barbers Company by John Atkinson Esqr1851.” This ladle is inlaid with a very fine medal of 1704 in high relief, commemorating the Incorporation of the Sons of the Clergy by Queen Anne.

Another antique punch ladle of oval shape, with hard wood handle, believed to have been given by Mr. John Atkinson, the date is probably about 1620.

A massive silver badge71/2-in. by81/2-in. of late 17th Century work, formerly worn by the Barge master, and having the Company’s arms in relief on shield, surrounded by laurel bordering.

A plain and ugly silver medal21/2-ins. diameter, with arms of the Company (badly done), on one side, and on the reverse, “Presented by John Carter, Master 1870–71.” This badge is worn by the first Warden.

A very handsome badge, 23⁄4inches diameter, of silver gilt open work, and richly enamelled with the arms of the Company, and a loop representing the Tudor rose crowned. This badge is worn by the Master.

A pair of antique Beadle’s mace heads. These are of remarkably fine workmanship, very massive, and have the Company’s heraldry displayed in high relief on both sides; each weighs about 64 ounces. (See illustrationp. 302.)

Four very handsomely chased and wrought silver garlands or wreaths for crowning the Master and Wardens on Election Day, and which are still used and worn by them on Court days in receiving guests. These are the finest in the City of London; each has the Company’s arms and the badges of the rose and crown, with other devices artistically set forth, and are mounted with silk velvet, the Renter Warden’s being green, and the others red. These garlands were made in 1629. (Seep. 494.)

A silver mounted hammer, given by James Mumford or Monforde, King’s Surgeon and First Warden in 1540; the mountingsare engraved with the Tudor rose, and the arms of France and England quarterly. At the end of the handle are the donor’s initials I.M. (See illustrationp. 503.)

A silver bell “The Gift of MrRobert Emerton Master to the Worshipful Company of Barbers 1790.”

A silver mounted snuff box, and another snuff box presented by Mr. Deputy Brass and handsomely carved out of a piece of oak removed from the roof of the old Hall. This is enclosed in another box velvet lined, with inscription on a silverplate—

The Barbers Company have well deservedThat Brass’s gift by Shoppee be preserved. Anno. 1866.

A silver salver, the gift of Charles J. Shoppee, Master 1878.

A silver claret jug, the gift of Alderman Wilkin, Master 1885.

A silver inkstand, the gift of Jonathan Denny, Master 1886.

A silver salver, the gift of Edward Charles Cornish, Master 1887.

A very handsome and massive silver jardinière and stand, the gift of John Cary Lovell, Assistant 1889.

A replica of the silver hammer given by James Monforde, with a silver mounted block for same, the gift of George Austin, jun., Master 1888.

It may not be considered out of place to record here, that the piano in the Court Room is the gift of Mr. Deputy Harvey, Master 1879.

Thefollowing are some extracts from the Minutes, relating to Pictures.

24th June, 1601. It is this daye by consent of a wholl Courte of Assistance ordered That if at any tyme hereafter any Mror Governor of this company or any othrpˀsone or pˀsones free of the same mistery shall blott deface or put oute or cause to be blotted defaced or put oute any of the pictures of any of this Company nowe paynted or hereafter lawfully placed in any of the tables of pictures hangeinge in the Com̃on hall of this mistery wthout the Consent of a full Courte of Assistance That then hee or they so offendinge shall forfeyte and paye for every such offence xlithe one half thereof to be to the use of the Chamberlen of the Cytie of London And the othrhalf to the use of the said mistery.

The above order was made in consequence of some members of the Court having painted out the faces on the pictures, and caused their own to be depicted in their stead.

28th June, 1604. This daye it is ordered that MrWillmMartin Mrffrederick Mrffyneinge & Mrffenton shall pˀsently conferre with Decreete concerninge the ffynisheinge of the tables of Picktures remayneinge wthhim and if hee will finishe the same wthreason and drawe them to the Hall they are to compound wthhim for the same if not the table is to be taken awaye from him.10th October, 1605. This day it is ordered that the Kingꝭ picture shalbe by the said pˀnte Mrsboughte and pˀvided at the charge of this house.Item paid for his Matꝭ pictureiiijliItem geven to the paynters man that broughte the said pyctureiisvjd1st August, 1634. It is ordered that the 41 philosophers pictures shalbe rebeautified and repaired by MrGreeneburye at the Costs of this house soe it exceede not xli.

10th October, 1605. This day it is ordered that the Kingꝭ picture shalbe by the said pˀnte Mrsboughte and pˀvided at the charge of this house.

Item paid for his Matꝭ pictureiiijliItem geven to the paynters man that broughte the said pyctureiisvjd

1st August, 1634. It is ordered that the 41 philosophers pictures shalbe rebeautified and repaired by MrGreeneburye at the Costs of this house soe it exceede not xli.

The “forty-one philosophers” were former Masters of Anatomy and Examiners of Surgeons, who as they were from time to time appointed, might if they chose, have their portraits put in what was called “The Table of the Anatomy” (and which was, I think, one large picture containing the effigies of forty-one persons), and the practice undoubtedly was, as occasion arose, to paint a face on old shoulders; indeed, there are many notices to this effect, as also orders of Court for blotting out the “faces” of such as had become obnoxious, or who had been removed for misconduct.

1st February, 1627. Item this daye upon the moc͠on of our Mrit is ordered by this Court that there shalbe a large wainscott frame made and a picture maker shalbe agreed withall by the present Mrsfor the portreying of the Anathomye and makeing of MrDoctorGwins picture and the Clarkes which Charge shalbe borne out of the stock of this house, in which table shalbe placed the figures & visages of every of the Assistants whoe are not painted in the Anathomye table that now standeth upp in the Hall, every of the Assistants payeing for the setting up of his owne picture.29th March, 1647. This Court doth order That MrHenry Watsons ffigure in the present Table of Anatomy be blotted out and MrCharleyes Effigies placed in the roome thereof Provided that his Executrix pay his Legacy to this House.This Court doth order That there be a new Anathomy Table And that all the Assistants whose Effigies are not in the present Table may be sett up in the new Table at theire owne charge, and that Doctor Goddards ffigure be there sett as Reader and Doctor Prudions Effigies may be painted there if he desireth it And this Court doth order that MrWatson a Brother of this Company shall make the said Table and paint thereon the ffigure of an Anathomy with the severall ffigures of the said Reader Doctor Prudion andour Clarke at the charge of this House And that the ffigures of the present Mrsof Anatomy be there sett as Dissectors at theire owne charge.9th August, 1647. This Court takeing into considerac͠oon the greate benefitt and proffitt That have accrewed to this House by MrEdward Arris a loveing Brother of this Company This Court doth order That his picture be sett up in the Blanck Table in the Hall next the Anathomy Table at the charge of this Howse.19th August, 1647. Upon the earnest request of Mr. Edward Arris to this Court That his Picture be nott sett up in the Hall according to the Order of the last Court of Assistants This Court to satisfy Mr. Arris modest request therein doth order that that order be annulled and not put in execuc͠on.

29th March, 1647. This Court doth order That MrHenry Watsons ffigure in the present Table of Anatomy be blotted out and MrCharleyes Effigies placed in the roome thereof Provided that his Executrix pay his Legacy to this House.

This Court doth order That there be a new Anathomy Table And that all the Assistants whose Effigies are not in the present Table may be sett up in the new Table at theire owne charge, and that Doctor Goddards ffigure be there sett as Reader and Doctor Prudions Effigies may be painted there if he desireth it And this Court doth order that MrWatson a Brother of this Company shall make the said Table and paint thereon the ffigure of an Anathomy with the severall ffigures of the said Reader Doctor Prudion andour Clarke at the charge of this House And that the ffigures of the present Mrsof Anatomy be there sett as Dissectors at theire owne charge.

9th August, 1647. This Court takeing into considerac͠oon the greate benefitt and proffitt That have accrewed to this House by MrEdward Arris a loveing Brother of this Company This Court doth order That his picture be sett up in the Blanck Table in the Hall next the Anathomy Table at the charge of this Howse.

19th August, 1647. Upon the earnest request of Mr. Edward Arris to this Court That his Picture be nott sett up in the Hall according to the Order of the last Court of Assistants This Court to satisfy Mr. Arris modest request therein doth order that that order be annulled and not put in execuc͠on.

Notwithstanding this order Mr. Arris’ portrait was painted, and is still at the Hall.

27th February, 1650. MrArris and Doctor Scarboroughs pictures to be sett in the void Table in the Hall at the charge of this House.

In 1720 the Court were possibly thinking of purchasing another Holbein, as the following note occurs in the minutes,

3rd March, 1720. MemorandmMrLenthall at Burford in Oxfordshire has a Picture of SrThomas More and his familey drawn by Hans Holben being a dispute between his Protestant Daughter and his Catholick Daughter in the pˀsence of the father and the rest of the familey.21st April, 1720. It is referred to the Governors to treat with MrVertue the Ingraver about Ingraving King Henry the Eighths Picture and to report his proposall to a Court of Assistants.

21st April, 1720. It is referred to the Governors to treat with MrVertue the Ingraver about Ingraving King Henry the Eighths Picture and to report his proposall to a Court of Assistants.

27th August, 1734. The question of engraving the Picture was again referred to a Committee.

17th September, 1734. The Committee reported, the result being that Mr. Bernard Baron entered into an agreement to engrave a plate; the details of the arrangements with him are all set out in the minutes, but are not sufficiently interesting to warrant transcribing.

Baron’s engraving is well known and sought after by collectors, but it has a peculiarity, being a complete reverse of the original picture. Each Assistant is presented with a copy on his election on to the Court.

We formerly had a portrait of Dr. Tyson, Anatomy Reader, but this was sold to one of his descendants in 1745 for ten guineas.

10th November, 1777. Mr. William Slade, an Assistant, presented a mezzotint engraving of the portrait of John Paterson, Esq., formerly Clerk of the Company; the original was painted by Sir Joshua Reynolds. This engraving is now hung in the committee room.

Guildhall, 31 October, 1832.Gentlemen,Having become possessed a few years since of a perfect copy of Hollar’s engraved view of LondonA.D.1647, representing the most striking appearance of the metropolis as it existed previously to the conflagration in 1666, and thinking it might be acceptable to the Lovers of the Antiquities of this ancient and renowned City that so authentic a Memorial of its then state should be preserved and transmitted to future ages by Multiplication of Copies.I have had it carefully and correctly Lithographed, and request that your Worshipful Court will be pleased to accept the impression herewith transmitted to be placed in the Archives of the Company of Barbers.I have the honor to be,Gentlemen,Your most obedt.Servant,W. L. NEWMAN,City Solicitor.

Guildhall, 31 October, 1832.

Gentlemen,

Having become possessed a few years since of a perfect copy of Hollar’s engraved view of LondonA.D.1647, representing the most striking appearance of the metropolis as it existed previously to the conflagration in 1666, and thinking it might be acceptable to the Lovers of the Antiquities of this ancient and renowned City that so authentic a Memorial of its then state should be preserved and transmitted to future ages by Multiplication of Copies.

I have had it carefully and correctly Lithographed, and request that your Worshipful Court will be pleased to accept the impression herewith transmitted to be placed in the Archives of the Company of Barbers.

I have the honor to be,Gentlemen,Your most obedt.Servant,W. L. NEWMAN,City Solicitor.

To the Master Wardens andAssistants of the WorshipfulCompany of Barbers, London.

This picture is now hung up in the corridor.

The following is but little more than a List of the Pictures now at Barbers’ Hall, a full account of which has been already written by Mr. C. J. Shoppee.

Alderman Arris’ Picture.This picture was painted by Mr. Greenbury who was employed as Portrait Painter to the Company at this period.

Dr. Charles Scarborough and Alderman Arris’ Picture.This picture was also painted by Mr. Greenbury as by the following extract from the Wardens’ Accounts for 1651appears—

Paid to Greenburye for Painting the Picture ofli.s.d.MrEdward Arris and Doctor Charles Scarborough & Anathomye9100

Linneus’ Picture.This picture of Linneus was purchased 2nd July, 1844, for £3 3s., the particulars of the purchase and of the picture are set out in the Court Minutes of this date. Mr. Shoppee has surmised that this is a portrait of John Bancks, but though his portrait wasorderedto be painted, I do not find that it ever was, and it is not once mentioned in any of the numerous early inventories of pictures. The Minutes of 1844 are, however, so precise as to leave no further doubt on this point, viz., that it is a portrait of Linneus.

The Holbein Picture.

King Charles II Picture, artist unknown. Purchased by the Company 1720–1721.

Inigo Jones’ Picture, by Sir A. Vandyke.

Thomas Lisle’s Picture, artist unknown.

Sir John Frederick’s Picture, artist unknown. Purchased by the Company, 1665–1666.

Serjeant-Surgeon Charles Bernard’s Picture.This picture was painted by Mr. Murray in 1711, the Company paying him £12 10s.for it.

The Duchess of Richmond’s Picture, by Sir Peter Lely.

Henry Johnson’s Picture, artist unknown. Mr. Johnson was Master 1677; he has been erroneously described as “Serjeant Surgeon” and “Serjeant Knight,” but never held the first office, and there is no such dignity as “Serjeant Knight.” The fact is that Mr. Johnson dying in his year of Master, was succeeded by John Knight, Serjeant Surgeon (commonly called “Serjeant Knight”) and Mr. Knight’s name being so written under Mr. Johnson’s in an old list of Masters, has been taken as the title of an office!

Ephraim Skinner’s Picture, artist unknown.

Bernard Baron’sred crayon study of Holbein’s picture.

“Two Spanish Pictures.” These were so called in the old Inventories. There was also in the Inventory of 1720 “A picture of the Prince Elector Palatine,” but this subsequently disappeared, though the “Spanish pictures” remained in the Inventories for many years. Mr. Shoppee suggests that they are the portraits of Frederick Casimir and his wife Elizabeth. At the top of one of them is a shield of arms, being the coat of Byrkes or Brykes.

Queen Anne’s Picture, artist unknown.

All the foregoing Pictures are hung in the Court Room. In the Committee Room are various pictures, engravings and portraits of recent Masters.

In the Vestibule to the Court Room is an ancient list of Masters and Wardens on Vellum, enclosed with oak folding doors. It is not, however, very accurate. It was at the Hall in 1720, and probably for many years previously. The list was rewritten over the old lettering in 1865. (See head piece,p. 1.)

This Lord was the son of Sir George Nevill, third Lord of Burgavenny, by Mary, daughter of Edward Stafford, Duke of Buckingham.

He succeeded his father in 1535, and was admitted to the freedom of the Barber-Surgeons on the 26th August, 1584. In 1586 he was one of the Commissioners appointed to try Mary Queen of Scots.

For striking the Earl of Oxford in the Chamber of Presence, he was put under arrest, but managed shortly after to obtain a pardon and his freedom.

He married Frances, daughter of Thomas Earl of Rutland, by whom he left at his decease, 10th February, 1557, an only daughter Elizabeth (the wife of Sir Thomas Fane), who was subsequently created Baroness le Despencer.

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