An early 20th century Edwardian hand painted escutcheon mounted on an oak shield representing the college coat of arms of Peterhouse, Cambridge University. Made by A.W. Crisp & Co. of 16 King’s Parade, Cambridge, with the original label on the reverse of the shield. The firm operated from this address as heraldic artists between 1884 to 1974. 

English, circa 1910
 
Dimensions

Height: 20cm / 8”
Width: 16cm / 6¼"

Peterhouse is a constituent college of the University of Cambridge. Founded by Hugh de Balsham (Bishop of Ely) in 1284, making it the oldest college at Cambridge and one of the wealthiest. The main site is situated on Trumpington Street. The college buildings date from a wide range of periods and have been much altered over the years. Peterhouse was the first college at Cambridge to have electric lighting installed and the second building in the country after the Palace of Westminster. In 1420 the college was reputed to have been partially destroyed by fire. The college, during its history, has used five different coats of arms. The current coat of arms is linked to the college founder. The arms consist of a red and gold striped shield with eight ducal coronets in a surrounding border.