Vienna Exhibition 1873
Group VII.

IE original of this work of art was manufactured for the International Exhibition of Paris, in 1867, and was, like the vase described in the preced- ing page, the unaided work of Morel Ladeuil, who designed and wrought it by the repoussé process in silvei and steel, with enrichments in dama- scened gold. In conséquence of the original having already been exhibited, attention is now drawn to a fac-similé copy only, which is shown merely to illustrate how perfectly the most elaborate works of art in metal may be reproduced by the electrotype process, which preserves intact the finish given by the band of the artist himself. The subjects selected for illustration on this Shield were taken from Milton’s “ Paradise Lost,” 6th Book ; and the able manner in which the poet's thoughts were rendered has been com- mented upon by several competent critics. A few extracts may be given which are likely to be found interesting. At page 217 of the “Art Journal Catalogue of the Paris Exhibition, 1867,” the following opinion is expressed :—“ There is a general impression that the work here engraved is the best work exhibited during the mémorable year 1867. The ‘ manufacturers,’ Messrs. Elking- ton & Co., have received a gold medal, not indeed for this work only, but for their contributions of rare art value, and the award has been endorsed by al1 other exhibitors of every kingdom and state.” The Times of September 4th, 1867, alluding to the Milton Shield, remarks that “ it is one of the finest things in the Exhibition ; the ideas in that work are not only full of poetry, but sometimes reach the sublime.” Mr. George Wallis (Curator of the South Kensington Museum), when noticing this Shield; wrote thus :—" Every face expresses the appro- priate mental emotion or passion. There is awe and fear expressed in the face of Adam, and modesty in that of Eve, as they listen to the recital by Raphael of the conflict between the hosts of Heaven and Hell. The listeners are seated in Eden’s bower, shaded with trees, witli creeping plants, tender ferns, and spontaneously produced fruits, scattered at their feet in rich profusion. Confidence is indicated in the faces of the hosts of Heaven as they advance to the attack. There is Michael-Angelo-like force of drawing in the terrified faces and forms of the defeated rebels, as they are driven out of Heaven, and fall down to perdition in an endless variety of attitude, recalling the ‘ Last Judgment.’ How fiercely St. Michael wields his flaming sword, as he stands on the prostrate body of the Dragon i Sin and Death are represented with their appro- priate symbols at the bottom of the Shield, and, soaring far above the regions of conflict, strife, defeat, sin, and death, seraphic and angelic figures, borne on wings, approach, in attitudes adoring, the cherub-surrounded Emblem of all Light and Life, spiritual and material. The signs of the zodiac, with figures floating, symbolise the rolling year and the flight of time, and delicately-worked leafage, in low relief, is introduced to fill up the space not oceupied by the illustration of the poem.” From the great interest this Shield has obtained since it was exhibited in Paris, the Lords of the Council of Education have consented to permit Messrs. Elkington & Co. to make copies from the original by means of electro-deposition, with the object of assisting to develop a general taste for high and refined art-workmanship. The prices at which it will be sold have been fixed at the lowest possible rate, so as to bring it within the reach of all, viz.—Copper bronzed, ^6 ; the same, coated with silver and oxydized, ^9 9s. ; and for copies representing a fac-similé of the original, one portion being chased in silver, another in steel, and a third damascened with gold, ^12 12s- Frame with stand, extra price, in proportion to the style preferred.