James Ashe (d. 1671)

James Ashe (d. 1671), member of Parliament for Bath, and active Parliamentarian, an 18th century uniface oval silver restitutional portrait medal, by Stuart in imitation of a 17th century medal, bust left, his hair long and over collar, IACOBVS ASCHEVS AET 56 (cf MI p. 422, un-numbered entry), 35.5 x 30.5mm, in 18th century snakeskin case. Extremely fine and very rare.

When making his series of restitutional medals it would seem that Stuart was misinformed and copied a Dutch medal of one James Pasch, aged 36, and made him into James Ashe, aged 56. Ashe is an important figure in the history of Bath, being elected MP in 1640 and again in 1656. He was later appointed Recorder for the City. He married Margerey Harrinton in 1652.

Provenance: Baldwin Auction, 25 September, 2006 (lot 1256); ex Papillon Collection, Bonhams, 25 March, 1988 (lot 37) Collection; and Spink Auction, 13 October, 1982 (lot 157); ex Papillion, (lot 37)