2-979-071 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The Milton Vase, 1857. 'This interesting work of sculpture attracted much admiration at the last exhibition of the Royal Academy. The vase is feet 5 inches in height. The subjects illustrate "Paradise Lost". The panel engraved shows Michael leading Adam and Eve out of Paradise; the fiery sword waving behind them, and the cherubim guarding the place: "Haste thee, and from the Paradise of God Drive out the sinful pair. All terror hide, If patiently thy bidding they obey: Dismiss them not disconsolate. Book II". The handle is supported by masks of Sin and Death, with foliage of the deadly nightshade. Under the lip are masks of Envy, Hatred, Fear, and Despair, with foliage of wild plants. The entire design is of classic character. The Vase is the joint production of two rising young artists, T. and W. J. Wills, of Harrison-street, Gray's-inn- road. We are glad to see artistic skill applied to works of this class'. From "Illustrated London News", 1857.