Arms of New York

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

The Arms of New York, officially adopted in 1778,  is dominated by the figures of two goddesses. To the right is the Goddess of Liberty. Holding a pole, on which rests a Liberty Cap, she represents the right of people to live independently and free from oppression and tyranny. The Goddess on the left, blindfolded and holding the sword of justice, symbolizes the State's pledge of impartial, fair and equal treatment under the law for all its citizens. Together, these figures stand as a testament to the twin ideals of liberty and justice for all. In the centre, a shield carries a view of the sun rising over the Huson River, and above the shield  an eagle rests atop a globe. Facing west, the eagle symbolizes opportunity and optimism and represents New York's unique position in the world as the economic and commercial bridge between the East and the West -- the old world and the new. Beneath the shield is a ribbon with the State motto, EXCELSIOR, Ever Upward.

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.

More on this print source

Potter: Thomas Mayer

Pattern & Print Source Comparison

View pattern details » Arms of New York Thomas Mayer