Although I am having a busy time writing my the fourth book in the series ‘Tarot Decoded’ (about the Emperor Tarot card), I still made time to wash up a couple of items for Reckless Relic. Its such a joy to watch the dust disappear and the beauty of a piece reveal itself, and luckily I didn’t have to scrub anything too hard!

Firstly a little cream sugar bowl, curly handles at each end and with a neat lid, started to shine as it dried. Such a simple piece of pottery, yet so elegant – the bottom says, B then WRM Bursem England. It’s far too old to use now, although I am sure at one time it graced a table and held sugar lumps!

I also dusted down a beautiful wooden ornamental plate,with an tastful pattern in the centre. It looks Islamic and is in excellent condition, far too fine to eat ones sandwiches from, but would be lovely to hold wrapped sweets to offer around ones guests!

Finally I gave a quick dusting to an old candle holder, whose age I cannot fathom at all. It seems to be made of tin and looks like it had been mass produced, although research turned up no clues. It was probably common to see them at one time, but since gaslight and electricity these cheap, everyday objects have become a rare curiosity. It’s design is sheer functionality – probably for lighting ones way to the privy – and it enthrals me that a disposable, seemingly valueless item at one time, has survived.