Firebacks

Description: Quasi-arched rectangular shape; on a ground, an armorial achievement comprising a central cartouche on which is an oval shield bearing the arms of the Cavendish family, with graduated bead edging; supporters, two stags rampant; above the cartouche, on a wreath a coiled snake crest surmounted by an earl’s coronet; the date split either side of the crest; to each side, a column with foliate capital supporting a three-sided arch with ovolo-moulded edging, on each shoulder of which is a flaming orb.

Notes: The arms are those of the Earls of Devonshire. However, the date relates to William Cavendish (1640-1707), previously 4th Earl and created 1st Duke of Devonshire in 1694. An earlier casting (no. 246) has a date of 1657, the second pair of numerals having been changed. Christie's auction 3 Dec 2014 lot 15 (dated incorrectly as 1693) (£1,875).

Inscription: 1695

Arms: William Cavendish, 1st Duke of Devonshire, as 4th Earl of Devonshire