Saturday 18 April 2009

Crown Chimneys



Who can resist exploring an architectural salvage shop? Following the industrial revolution, these antique crown chimneys became all the rage. Hardworking Victorians were proud of their homes and valued anything they thought would enhance them. When chimney pots were found to cut down on draughts, as well as being esthetically pleasing, the result was a proliferation of designs in chimney pots. At the height of production, there were over 500 designs. Names include: The Bishop, the Long Knight, The Horned-CrownTop, and the Lady Broughton to name a few. They were made from clay and fired at high temperatures to withstand heat going up and cold and sleet coming down. These historical pots come in all shapes and sizes that once graced the UK skyscape, and are often purchased now as a garden accessory.