Arms of Massachusetts

This version of the arms of Massachusetts was adopted by the Provincial Congress on December 13, 1780. The shield depicts an Algonquian Native American with bow and arrow; the arrow is pointed downward, signifying peace. A white star with five points appears next to the figure's head. A ribbon surrounds the shield, bearing the state motto Ense petit placidam sub libertate quietem.  This comes from the Book of Mottoes in the Royal Danish Library in Copenhagen, Denmark  written about 1659 by Algernon Sydney, English soldier and politician. It was adopted in 1775 by the Provincial Congress and means, "With a sword, she seeks quiet peace under liberty."

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

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