Painted Door

This top section of a wooden door is a unique reproduction of the Great Plague of London era, featuring a typical rush-painted red cross and prayer. The design reflects the sombre yet symbolic marks placed on doors during the plague, offering a tangible connection to one of the darkest periods in London's history. The door measures approximately 50 cm wide x 56 cm tall, making it an impactful piece for any collection or display.

Key Features:

• Material: Crafted from wood, offering an authentic feel of the materials used during the Great Plague period.
• Design: The door features a rush-painted red cross, a symbol that was marked on houses affected by the plague. The red cross was often accompanied by a prayer or warning, signalling that the household was in quarantine.
• Size: Approximately 50 cm wide x 56 cm tall, making it an ideal size for display in homes, classrooms, or museums.
• Finish: The wooden door has a distressed finish to reflect the historical age, with the painted red cross and prayer carefully replicated to maintain authenticity.

Historical Context:

During the Great Plague of London (1665-1666), the red cross was painted on the doors of homes where plague victims had been found. This symbol served as both a warning to others and a form of identification for those infected with the disease. The accompanying prayer often read, "Lord have mercy upon us," reflecting the desperation and fear of the time. This piece captures the bleak reality of the period, providing a visual representation of the public health measures taken during one of London's worst epidemics.

Educational Purpose:

• The Great Plague of London: A great tool for exploring the history of the plague, its impact on society, and how the red cross was used during outbreaks.
• Public Health History: Ideal for discussions on historical quarantine practices and the role of symbols in controlling epidemics.
• Historical Art and Symbolism: Perfect for lessons on historical symbolism, medieval and early modern public health measures, and the use of art to communicate societal messages.

Ideal For:

• Classroom Learning: A fascinating addition to lessons on English history, the Great Plague, or historical health practices.
• Historical Displays: An impactful artefact for exhibitions on disease and medicine, London's history, or public health in the early modern period.
• Collectors of Historical Artefacts: Perfect for collectors interested in plague-era history, historical doors, or symbolic art from the period.

This Great Plague of London Painted Door offers a deeply historical and educational piece, connecting to one of the most significant events in England's past.