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Biscuitware vase or urn decorated with paper flowers, Wedgwood
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Biscuitware vase or urn decorated with paper flowers, Wedgwood
Late 18th or early 19th century (probably before 1815)
Unglazed earthenware with applied paper decoration
Museum number: BL6
Not on display
Curatorial note
This white biscuitware vase or urn is of a type sold for home decoration by ladies and in this case is garlanded with applied paper flowers, perhaps the work of Eliza Soane. The urn echoes the shape of an ancient cinerary urn and was placed by John Soane, at the end of his life, on an altar-like table in the 'Oratory' next to his bedroom, beneath a stained glass window depicting the celebrated hermit Saint Arsenius. Soane referrred to himself as a 'solitary hermit' after the death of Eliza and, some years later, created an imaginary alter ego, 'Padre Giovanni' for his basement Monk's Parlour. The association of this urn with a depiction of a solitary hermit may be an extension of this metaphor.
Associated items
XF110, displayed together
Soane collections online is being continually updated. If you wish to find out more or if you have any further information about this object please contact us: worksofart@soane.org.uk