Arms of Delaware

Detail from an engraving of a facsimile of the  Declaration of Independence. 
Published by John Binns, 1818/19.

Library of Congress Online Catalog http://lccn.loc.gov/2003690785

Pattern and Print Source Comparison

The design of the  coat of arms was adopted by the State of Delaware in 1777.  The imagery includes a farmer to the left,  pointing to an oxen with one hand and holding a ship aloft with the other, symbolizing the agricultural and ship building industries that formed the basis of the state's economy. The militiaman to the right,  recognizes the role of the citizen-soldier to maintaining American liberty.  Beneath is a ribbon with the state motto Liberty and Independence.

The detail of the State Arms is taken from a large facsimile of the Declaration of Independence, published by John Binns, in a design registered in 1818 and printed in 1819. Encircling the text of the Declaration is a ceremonial chain with medallions bearing portraits of Founding Fathers and the arms of each state.  Binns hoped to distribute 200 copies of the design and it seems that at least one made it to England where, between 1826 and 1830, Thomas Mayer, potter of Stoke-upon Trent, used it to produce a series of designs. It is believed that he used 12 of original 13  states’ coats of arms as New Hampshire has never been seen in this series of pottery prints.

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Potter: Thomas Mayer

Pattern & Print Source Comparison

View pattern details » Arms of Delaware Thomas Mayer