Seated Cherub with Book

Needle Case

Seated Cherub with Book
needle case
Design Representation

Design Details

Needle Case Type:	Figural
Patent/Registered to:	J. M. Farnol – Birmingham
Patent/Design Representation #:	Ornamental Class1: Metal: #350165 (incorrectly listed on TNA’s website as 350166. Actual examination of the original records indicates this is a typo and the correct number is 350165)
Patent/Design Registration Date:	May 27, 1880
Location of Patent/Design Registration:	The National Archives (TNA) - Kew, UK
Reference #:	TNA Representation - BT 43/46/350165 TNA Register - BT 44/4/350165
Dimensions:	Unknown
Material:	Brass
Name Variations:	Unmarked
Other Variations:	None

Additional Photographs

None Available

Facts

Today the cherub is often interchangeable with cupid, both figures being depicted as a small chubby child with wings. Cherubs are most often found on greeting cards, especially ones created for Valentine’s Day.

Cherub facts

History

Cherub history

Although winged infant children were common in Ancient Greek and Roman sculpture, their popularity waned during the Middle Ages. However, during the Renaissance they returned in force as an important feature in Christian art since the cherub or winged angel acts as a messenger of God in Judeo-Christian religions. Two of the most famous cherubs are found in Raphael’s painting known as the Sistine Madonna, which was commissioned by the Pope, in 1512. They are found at the very bottom of the painting leaning on the altar; pictured above and below. Some believe these two cherubs were based on the children of the artist’s model who would come and watch as Raphael painted their mother.

Cherub history

Miscellaneous

Cherubs were also popular during the Victorian period where they were found in architectural and garden sculpture as well as household items such as wall paper, wall hangings, lamps, hand mirrors and jewelry. Today one can purchase these seated cherubs reading a book as a garden ornament.

Cherub misc