Curious Antique Folk Art Made Out Of Early Winchester Cathedral Oak & Metal From The Old Clock In Winchester Barracks
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A Curious Piece Of Antique Folk Art Made Out Of Early Winchester Cathedral Oak And Metal From The Old Clock In Winchester Barracks.
The barracks were the King’s House in Winchester. This was originally a late 17th century palace designed by Sir Christopher Wren for Charles II and later used as the central part of the military barracks at Winchester. It had been adapted as military accommodation and served as the Rifle Depot for the King’s Royal Rifle Corps and the Rifle Brigade (see last photo).
In the early hours of 19 December 1894, a major fire broke out at Winchester Barracks, destroying the building. The fire is believed to have started in the pay office and spread rapidly through the largely wooden interior. Limited water supply hampered firefighting efforts, and the building was gutted beyond repair. No loss of life was recorded, but the depot was temporarily evacuated to Gosport. The ruins were later demolished, and the site was rebuilt between 1899 and 1904 as what is now known as Peninsula Barracks.
And, in 1897, extensive restoration works were carried out on Winchester Cathedral, including to the nave roof. It was during these works that oak, dating to around 1086, was salvaged. Using this 900 year old wood, people made souvenirs, just like the piece here.
This curious item is an amalgamation of the two buildings, made from pieces salvaged from the sites, most definitely by a local resident of Winchester during the late 19th century as a memento of the two historic sites.
It appears to be a form of match striker, with the ridges on the clock metal used to strike the matches.
It’s a fabulous piece of social history and big chunky, heavy, piece of oak!
Condition is good, commensurate with age and use. Structurally sound.
Measures 16.2cm x 15cm x 4.5cm deep.
Weighs 700 grams