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Box made of the wood of Shakspeare's mulberry-tree, presented to [David] Garrick..., 1864. Creator: Unknown
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Box made of the wood of Shakspeare's mulberry-tree, presented to [David] Garrick..., 1864. Creator: Unknown
Box made of the wood of Shakspeare's mulberry-tree, presented to [David] Garrick by the town of Stratford-on-Avon, 1864. Item from a bequest to the British Museum: '...the box or casket, made of the wood of the mulberry-tree planted by Shakspeare, in which the freedom of the borough of Stratford-on Avon was presented to [Shakespearian actor David] Garrick. This casket was purchased by the late Mr. Mathews, the comedian, at Mrs. Garrick's sale, and when his library and curiosities were brought to the hammer in August, 1835, it was, amidst a crowd of bidders, knocked down to Mr. George Daniel, at a large sum. It is exquisitely carved with the following devices: In the front, Fame holding the bust of Shakspeare, and the three Graces crowning him with laurel; on the back, Garrick, finely delineated, in the character of King Lear in the storm scene; on the sides are emblematical figures representing Tragedy and Comedy; the top and corners are boldly carved with subjects and devices from Shakspeare's works. It is raised upon and supported by four silver griffins, with ruby eyes. On the 3rd of May, 1709, the freedom of Stratford-on-Avon was presented to Mr. Garrick, inclosed in this famous casket'. From "Illustrated London News", 1864
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A Symbolic Tribute - Box Made of Shakespeare's Mulberry-Tree Presented to David Garrick, 1864
EDITORS COMMENTS
This exquisite box, crafted from the wood of William Shakespeare's very own mulberry-tree, is a poignant tribute to the Bard and his most ardent admirer, actor David Garrick. The intricate carvings on its surface tell a story of artistic genius and theatrical flair. On one side, Fame holds aloft Shakespeare's bust as the three Graces crown him with laurel leaves - a testament to his enduring legacy in literature. Meanwhile, the back panel features Garrick himself, captured in mid-performance as King Lear amidst a tempestuous storm.
The box's sides are adorned with symbolic figures representing Tragedy and Comedy, while its top and corners boast motifs inspired by Shakespeare's works. The entire piece is supported by four majestic silver griffins with ruby eyes - an added touch of elegance and whimsy. This remarkable casket was originally presented to Garrick in 1709 as a symbol of the freedom granted to him by the town of Stratford-avon, where Shakespeare once called home. Today, it stands as a powerful reminder of the enduring bond between artistry and creativity that has captivated audiences for centuries.
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