Hilary 2019

(Week 8) Wednesday 6th March
Annual General Meeting
'Architecture and Industry Display'd: images from late eighteenth and early nineteenth century tokens' - Dr Angela Grant (alumna of Jesus College, University of Oxford).
Abstract The token issues by various trading firms and others between 1787 and 1812 gave an opportunity for free expression of artistry not available through official mint channels. As a result many buildings were illustrated, both that still exist, and others that have been claimed by the ravages of time. These issues also gave the opportunity for the tradesmen involved to exhibit the tools and methods of their various trades, thus leaving us with an impression, if somewhat idealised, of industry at that moment in history. This paper draws on the evidence of the tokens themselves to present a glimpse of life at the time.