[V.] Relics of the Commonwealth.
These have been preserved in the family of F. H. Fawkes, Esq. of Farnley Hall. Cromwell’s sword is double-edged, straight and light, with quarter basket steel guard. The sword of Sir T. Fairfax is a straight broad-sword with basket hilt: on the blade is the name of the maker Andrea Ferara. Lambert’s sword is a hanger, serrated at the back; the hilt is brass; date on the blade 1648. The Watch is a small repeater, bearing the name of the maker, Jaques Cartier: the outer case is of leather perforated, and studded with silver. The matrix of the Seal is silver, and inscribed “The Seale for the approbation of Ministers.”
[VI.] Carved Chimney Piece in the Merchants’ Hall, Guildhall, Newcastle.
This lofty and elaborate chimney piece is dated 1636, and is evidently of Flemish workmanship. The large panels represent the Judgment of Solomon, and the Miraculous Draught of Fishes. The upper frieze is composed of mythological figures, and that below, immediately over the stone work, seems to be a representation of the four quarters of the world.
[VII.] Norman Wall-Painting.
This is a painting of the twelfth century (1154) on the side of a recess in the Galilee, Durham Cathedral, formerly the Altar of our Lady of Pity.
[VIII.] The Same. The opposite Wall of the Recess.
The soffit of the arch which connects these two jambs being decorated with Norman foliage, and the wide back of the recess painted in imitation of hangings. Whether these paintings can be properly termed Fresco—i. e. the colours applied simply with clear water to the lime while wet,—is a question. They are more likely distemper of a rude kind. The forms are expressed by a red outline; the spaces within these outlines being filled in with colour, with little attempt at shading.
[IX.] Carved Chairs, and Flower Jar for the Wall.
These chairs, the property of the Rev. G. Abbes, are of walnut wood, and very excellent execution. The flower-jar is Dutch, of a kind of earthenware, judging from the number of specimens remaining, much imported about a century and a half ago. A vessel for the same purpose might be now manufactured with advantage.