Images(2)

Badge

Dateca. 1785

Designed and engraved by Lewis Pingo (1743 - 1830)

OriginEngland, Birmingham or Sheffield

MediumFused silverplate (Sheffield plate)

DimensionsDiameter: 3 1/4"

Credit LineGift of Graham and Gale Hood in honor of Dr. Lowry Dale Kirby

Object number1987-777

DescriptionA circular badge depicting a Christ's Hospital student in his distinctive costume surrounded by three figures representing Arithmetic, Astronomy and Mathematics. Arithmetic is holding a tablet of figures, Astronomy is holding a sphere and Mathematics is holding a triangle and compasses. Two genii with caduceus and trumpet fly above. To the left, Zephyrs symbolically propel the ships of England.
Label TextThis is the badge typically worn by students or "mathemats" of the Royal Mathematical School, which was established by King Charles II in 1672 at Christ's Hospital, London. In 1676, the Dutch engraver John Roettier designed a silver badge to be worn by the boys. Because of cost and losses, the school’s Committee of Almoners ordered in 1785 that the badges be made of silverplate. Those badges were designed and produced by Lewis Pingo, Chief Engraver of the Royal Mint. The holes punched in the border of the badge allowed it to be sewn to the boy's coat. Students in the Royal Mathematical School typically came from disadvantaged backgrounds and were often apprenticed to ship captains upon the completion of their education.
InscribedStamped in relief around inner rim: AVSPICIO CAROL SECVNDI REGIS 1673 (Under the auspice of Charles II, King 1673)
MarkingsUnmarked