Shellwork shadow box with painted and silhouetted figure of...

Shellwork shadow box with painted and silhouetted figure of a town crier

William Harding, England, second quarter 19th century

Hand-written note on verso reads, "Bisnam 1885. This represents William Harding (My grandfather) as town crier of Great Marlboro who was appointed in 1826 and held the office until 1835 when a change of crier was declared soon after the election of Sir William Creston as M.P. for the Borrow of Marlboro. The representation is the work of his own hands. The only crier that ever wore a uniform in Marlboro. He was succeeded by William Crosswell commonly called White Will. The little dog did not belong to him but followed him everywhere when in uniform. This was given to me by my grandfather in the latter part of 1852. William Henry Harding."

10 3/4 in. x 8 in.

PROVENANCE:

Property of a Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania estate