The “Madonna and Child with Lilies” plaque which is located by the front door of Edgehill Mansion is a very classic “Della Robbia” style piece. The plaque is made using the famous Della Robbia technique which is tin-glazed terra-cotta statuary. The plaque depicts two figures: the Madonna (Virgin Mary) with the baby Jesus. She is seated and holds the infant Jesus who is reaching out to grasp some white lilies. White lilies are a traditional Christian symbol of purity and are often seen in depictions of Mary. The infant Jesus reaching towards the lilies could symbolize his desire for purity even as a baby.

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    Mary and Jesus are glazed in white and stand out against the blue background of the roundel. The blue and white color scheme is typical of “Della Robbia” style pieces, as are the more colorfully glazed fruits, leaves, and flowers framing the image.  Flowers and fruit are also often found in “Della Robbia” style pieces, signifying abundance, prosperity, growth, and salvation. 

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   These Della Robbia plaques were first made during the 15th century in Renaissance Florence and were very popular at the time.  They have continued to be produced and replicated through the subsequent centuries. Many people across the globe continue to look to collect these plaques and enjoy their simplicity and beauty.