CIRCA 1840

For a coin rummer of similar form dated 1843 see Charles Hajdermach, British Glass 1800-1914 (Woodbridge, 1991), p. 152, pl. 116. See also Hugh Wakefield, Nineteenth Century British Glass (London, 1982), p. 84, pl. 80 for another rummer of related form engraved with Neptune and signed, T. Hudson, Newcastle.

In forming this composition the engraver would probably have drawn on numerous accounts of the Duke of Wellington's celebrated victory over Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo. One example of such a source is George Cruickshank's Historical Account of the Battle of Waterloo, published in 1817, which contained plans, maps and engraved views of the battle. In addition, contemporary prints of the battle were in wide circulation at the time.

In the background, a figure raises and points his hat towards the enemy, perhaps representing the Duke of Wellington commanding his troops to the final advance. In the foreground a man, leaning on his sword for support, is helped to his feet by a comrade. This probably represents Field Marshal Henry William Paget, 1st Marquess of Anglesey, whose leg was severely damaged on the final day of the battle. According to anecdote, upon injury Paget exclaimed, "By God, sir, I've lost my leg!", to which Wellington replied, "By God, sir, so you have!".