George Whitefield and John Wesley Commemorative Wax Seal Stamps

Two remarkable carved wooden seal stamps produced to commemorate Reverend George Whitefield and his partner-turned-rival, John Wesley. Both are bust portraits of the men, made from wood, with a brass seal adhered to the base. Reverend Whitefield's seal measures 1.625" x 3.125" x 1", and the brass base has a square checked pattern. On verso reads "Centenary 1839", likely commemorating the 100 year anniversary of when Whitefield passed on command of the Methodist followers to Wesley. John Wesley's seal measures 1.5" x 3.125" x 1.125", and the brass base has a diamond checked pattern. Wesley also has a mother of pearl collar. The two seals are in fine condition, with some light wear to the brass bases due to use.

George Whitefield (1714-1770) was an Anglican priest and evangelist. He is known as one of the founders of Methodism and a close, lifelong friend of Benjamin Franklin. The two men shared a similar intellect, and despite their public personas, they greatly admired each other and frequently exchanged letters (These letters can be found at the American Philosophical Society in Philadelphia). Whitefield met John Wesley (1703-1791) at Oxford sometime around 1732 when he joined the university's "Holy Club". The two worked side by side for a time, and when left England in 1739, he entrusted his thousands of followers to Wesley’s care. However, upon his return in 1741, the Methodist movement had split into two separate camps; Wesley with the "Arminians" and Whitefield with the Calvinists. Whitefield and Wesley continued to have a strained relationship throughout their careers but appear to have reconciled later in life.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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