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The Symbolism of Britannia in Art and Culture
For thousands of years, Britannia has served as the personification of Britain. The name comes from a Roman goddess, and the figure is often depicted as such. Over the centuries, the figure has transformed into a symbol, perhaps most notably as the British Empire grew through the strength of its navy.
What Are the Origins of Britannia?
The name Britannia was originally the Latin name for Great Britain. In 43 A.D., the Romans invaded the island, and over the following half-century, they continued to expand the area under their control throughout much of England and Wales. The name Britannia was then used to reference the portion of the island under Roman control. Following the Roman withdrawal from the island, the name, meaning “land of the Britons,” stuck. However, the figure herself, for the most part, disappeared for nearly a millennia before returning in the 16th century during the reigns of Queen Mary I and, subsequently, Queen Elizabeth I.
What are the Key Design Elements of Depictions of Britannia?
Britannia was traditionally depicted wearing a Corinthian helmet and holding a spear. As the British Empire expanded and her navy grew to become the strongest in the world, a trident, reminiscent of Neptune, the Roman god of the seas, replaced the spear. Britannia was also often shown either standing on or with a backdrop of water. She became a symbol of pride, power, and imperialism as the British established and grew colonies in the Americas, Africa, Asia, and Australia.
In addition to her trident, other symbols often associated with Britannia took prominence at different times. Her shield, for example, represents defense. The shield was a poignant emblem when the island was under attack, such as during the Battle of Cornwall (1595), the Battle of Fishguard (1797), and, most recently, during the bombing of Britain during World War II.
She is also frequently depicted accompanied by a lion, which represents courage. Depictions of Britannia with a lion sometimes appear on coinage and often appear on military plaques and medals, such as British African General Service Medals, which were issued from 1902-1904.
Starting in the 17th century, depictions of Britannia also often included an olive branch. The olive branch was another symbol that became more powerful in the 20th century, as Britain and much of the rest of Europe were ravaged by two World Wars.
Britannia on Coins
Most coin collectors know Britannia best from her depictions on coinage. One of the earliest appearances of the figure on coinage was on a brass sestertius from the reign of Antoninus Pius (138-161 A.D.). As with many other early Roman coinage, she was depicted seated, and she wore a birrus Britannicus, a cloak of untreated sheep’s wool made for the harsh weather of the island. Under Emperor Commodus (180-192 A.D.), she was shown ready for battle with a design reminiscent of Queen Boudicca, a warrior queen who notoriously fought against the Roman invasion of the British Isles.
The Royal Mint’s Britannia Series
Although modern numismatic depictions of Britannia vary, many follow the themes captured in Philip Nathan’s 1987 design for The Royal Mint's Britannia Series. Within this classic numismatic design, Britannia stands powerfully on the seas against a strong wind. She dons a Corinthian helmet while holding her trident in one hand and balancing a shield in the other.
In the hand that balances the shield, she also holds an olive branch, expressing a desire for peace.
Britannia in Art and Culture
In addition to being featured on coins and medals, Britannia has also featured in art and literature. One of the most famous works featuring the figure is The Reception of the American Loyalists by Great Britain by Benjamin West, which Henry Moses later engraved. The work shows Britannia as a large figure with her shield, welcoming and protecting those expelled by the United States following the American war for independence.
Another famous Britannia appearance came in The Death of Admiral Lord Nelson – in the Moment of Victory! by James Gillray. She is depicted with her shield to her side and her trident in her arms as she holds his body. The powerful scene also includes an angel blowing a trumpet above.
Artistic renderings of Britannia were not limited to Britain, as the allegorical figure is recognized throughout the world. A Russian poster from 1914 represented the Triple Entente, an alliance that opposed the Central Powers of the German Empire and Austria-Hungary. In the poster, Russia stands at the center holding a cross, and she is flanked by Marianne (who represents France) and Britannia. Notably, Britannia is shown as having an anchor rather than a trident in the image, symbolizing hope while referencing the country’s naval prowess.
Modern Interpretations and Relevance of Britannia
Over the centuries, different elements of Britannia’s symbolism have played more prominent roles than they did historically. Britannia began as a figure honoring the island’s resolve, even by the Romans who invaded it. The shield took pride of place, emphasizing her defense of the island. As the British Empire grew largely on the strength of her navy, the focus turned to her trident, an ancient symbol of power over the seas. So great was their strength and reach that it was said, “the sun never set on the British Empire.” In the 20th century, the shield again rose to prominence as the British defended themselves in the World Wars. Renderings in recent decades have shown her garment blowing in the wind, representing resolve and independence. The olive branch has also become a mainstay as Great Britain moves away from conquest and toward a goal of peace through strength.
Conclusions
Few symbols of any country are as recognizable or influential as that of Britannia. From stamps and paintings to numismatics and paper money, the figure has proven as enduring as the nation she represents. Even so, while the figure herself endures, the symbols associated with her have evolved, each taking its own place in Britain’s long and proud history.
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