Images(2)

John Kirk Store Card

Datec.1760

Maker John Kirk

OriginEngland, London

MediumBrass

DimensionsDiameter: 31mm. Weight: 9.36 grams

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number2014-21

DescriptionObverse: View of the interior of Kirk's store, with a female clerk behind a counter serving a woman, a boy and a girl. The shop walls are filled with cubbies containing merchandise like toy horses, dolls and telescopes.

Reverse; The text "DUTCH AND ENGLISH TOYS, FANS & c. SOLD BY I. KIRK, IN ST. PAUL'S CHURCH YARD." within a border of dentils.
Label TextWhile 18th century store cards are rarely encountered, John Kirk's medallic version is truly exceptional. Not only does its obverse accurately depict the interior of a well-known London shop, but it also shows the sorts of merchandise available for sale by Kirk.

Although this card only mentions toys & fans for sale, Kirk was also well known for his skill as a die and seal cutter. He produced dozens of pieces between 1740 and his death in 1778, including a medal for the Battle of Minden (1759), a series of thirteen portrait medallettes for "Sentimental Magazine" and possibly the 1746-dated badge for the Tuesday Club of Annapolis (see 2011-257).