Rare Salvaged Antique 17th Century Solid Oak Inglenook Beam With Vast Collection Of Apotropaic Taper Burns
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This rare 17th century solid oak inglenook beam, salvaged directly from a historic farmhouse in Herefordshire, has an exceptionally well preserved collection of apotropaic taper burns. Once forming part of an even bigger hearth bressummer beam, this beautiful piece of oak serves as a tangible reminder of how people felt vulnerable and how they went about protecting themselves during the 1600’s.
Taper burns were deliberately created scorches on the wooden beams of homes, used as a form of ritual folk magic to ward off evil spirits, witches, and protect against fire or lightning strikes.
They were strategically placed at vulnerable structural entry points, such as fireplaces, doorways, and windows, where a controlled, ritualised burn was believed to spiritually inoculate the timber framed home against fire and evil spirits.
For centuries, historians assumed these distinct, tear shaped char marks were accidents caused by unattended candles. However, modern experimental archaeology has proven that they were intentionally crafted by holding a candle or rushlight at a 45 degree angle against the wood for up to 15 minutes, often requiring multiple rounds of burning and scraping to form a deep, permanent indentation.
This is the central element of the beam, of which I also have the two end sections, one of which has a single taper burn, which I have listed on my website too. However, this central section is the show stopper. I have never seen a period piece with such a vast collection of taper burns being sold on the open market. It displays magnificently and is a beautiful, solid piece of oak in its own right.
Condition is good, commensurate with age and use. Structurally sound. Charred to the back as an inglenook beam should be.
Measures 122cm x 26cm x 22cm
Weighs 31550 grams
