Incense Burner c. 1830

This ceramic incense burner, made by the Staffordshire Potteries, presents us with a charming cottage. At first glance, it is a simple, quaint scene, but consider the symbolism of the hearth, represented by the chimney, a place of warmth and family. The cottage is a deeply embedded symbol of domesticity, refuge, and the idyllic countryside. It echoes the ancient Roman idea of the "genius loci," the protective spirit of a place, linking us to ancestral homes. Think of the fairy tales, where the cottage often hides both dangers and the promise of comfort. This archetype resonates through time, from medieval tapestries to the Brothers Grimm stories, each telling a story of shelter and identity. The rising smoke from the chimney suggests not just a burning fire but also transformation, carrying prayers and thoughts skyward. This connects us to the archaic desire for purification and spiritual cleansing. Thus, this little cottage is a powerful force, engaging viewers on a subconscious level, reminding us of our longing for security and roots. The cyclical progression of these symbols, resurfacing and evolving through history, helps us find new meanings in familiar forms.