Hearth and Home

Since ancient times, the hearth has been an important symbol of sustenance, protection and familial affection.  Especially (but not only) in cold climates, most early, rustic dwellings would be centered-around the fireplace. It was the center of cooking, light and heat for the entire household.  When not sleeping, family members often would be found not far from the hearthside. Even today—even when it's not cold—people find themselves drawn to a fire pit, bonfire or barbecue grill.

There are more abstract explanations of mankind's attraction to the hearth.  Some find symbology in the "masculine fire" within the "feminine vessel."  The Roman goddess Vesta (known as Hestia to the Ancient Greeks) was the ancient goddess of hearth, home and family. She was the protector of Rome.  Her festival, Vestalia (7-15 June), was amongst the most important of Roman holidays. Vesta rarely was portrayed in human form.  Instead, she was depicted as a perpetual fire—attended to, in her temples, by Vestal Virgins.

Other communities associate the hearth with a spiritual dimension: a portal to the cosmos, a site of omens or divinations, or a bridge connecting one to previous generations.

This pair of handsome, heavy bookends depicts a modern(ish) mantelpiece—dressed with traditional andirons and stacked with firewood.  They are a stately (and very useful) addition to any library, bookshelf or office.  They are also a reminder of the comforts of hearth and home. Click on the photo above to learn more about them.