It has the Leeds stylistic entwined and reeded handles with relief floral terminals and the subject — Wilkes realistically depicted with his known caste in the left eye.

John Wilkes (1725-97). English rake & libertine, member of Hell Fire Club, later politician & M.P. for Aylesbury. Later, Lord Mayor of London. Criticised Government & George III policies and supported American Independence. He was imprisoned, several times, for his outspoken views and particularly publication of his Newspaper ‘The North Briton,’ issue No. 45 which attacked Government policy. In 1768 about 15,000 assembled in St. Georges Fields, London, protesting at his imprisonment. Seven people were shot by soldiers fearing a riotious mob forcing Wilkes to be released. Made popular at the time, was the peoples cry of ‘Wilkes & Liberty’ which later became synonymous with his fight for the rights of freedom of speech and the later call of American Colonists. Their  views he supported in Parliament contrary to government & royalist policy. John Wilkes Booth was named after him and many places in the USA too.

 A remarkably rare antique tankard commemorating an historical link with Liberty, free speech & Independence. In superb condition relative to its age. E. £3,000/4,000.

 Famous accredited remark:

 His one-time fellow Hell-Fire Club member and later adversary, the Earl of Sandwich, confronted him one day and declared, "I don't know whether you'll die of the pox or on the gallows." To which Wilkes responded, "That depends, sir, on whether I embrace your mistress or your principles."

This lot evaluated by Old Harlequin was offered at the Special Auction in East Anglia on Friday 11^th April, 2003, at T.W. GAZE & Son, Diss Auction Rooms, Norfolk and made a new British record of £7,500 for a Leeds creamware tankard.