Revolutionary War Field Art

Field Art carved from lead excavated at the site of the surrender of British Army at Siege of Yorktown, October 19, 1781. During the 18th Century, “X” was a symbol for the abbreviation for Christ, crossroads, and blessings. “I” was an abbreviation for individuality, Self-awareness, and the connection to one’s inner self. Possible Translation: “XIXX” – The carver finds himself at a “crossroads” between family and country, then looks to his “inner-self” while looking to “Christ” for blessing. The Horse is a spirit symbol for freedom. Translated the carver understood the outcome of his nation’s fight for freedom.

Provenance: Governor’s Antiques, Mechanicville, Virginia.
Dr. Francis Amos, Rocky Mount, Virginia.
Gordon Barlow, Swoope, Virginia (2024)