Firebacks

563mm tall

  1. 653

    rochester_10.jpg
    615 x 563 mm

    Description: Arched rectangular shape; cavetto-moulded edging; central, two handled, fluted vase with swirled, fruited vines issuing from the neck, and a bird on each side perched within the vines; out of the neck, a naïve human figure with arms outstretched, grasping vines on each side.

    Notes: The figure emerging from the vase has a symbolism which has yet to be explained.

    Copies of this fireback are known.

    Manufactured: in the mid to late 17th century in the Weald area of England.

    Current location: Eastgate House, High Street, Rochester, Kent, England.

    Museum number: A3496 (part of the Rochester Guildhall Museum museum group)