John Wesley Preaching inside a Pulpit

John Wesley Preaching inside a Pulpit
John Wesley Preaching inside a Pulpit

1800-1850 / Ceramic / Ornament / Sculpture / Wesleyana
Glazed ceramic
Statuette, Staffordshire, c. 1800

Ornaments depicting John Wesley were very popular in the 19th century, often as mantelpiece decorations. This particular one shows Wesley preaching inside a pulpit, a very poignant image which warns against temporal living and reminds of the need to prepare for the hereafter through spiritual devotion.

Many 'Wesleyana' ceramicware items were made in the potteries in and around Staffordshire, where Methodism was especially strong. Often, the modelling and decoration are quite rough.

Compare also to the John Wesley Pulpit and Clock statuette in the Collection.