Look Down! The Coal Hole Covers of London

In this illustrated talk, art teacher and ceramicist Simon Turner will explore the history of London’s coal hole covers. Look down as you walk through London and you’ll find thousands of coal hole covers set into pavements, doorsteps and courtyards. Once used to deliver coal directly into the cellars of London homes, these practical features are also miniature examples of Victorian design and craftsmanship. In this illustrated talk, art teacher, ceramicist and coal hole enthusiast Simon Turner will explore the history of London’s coal hole covers, the foundries and designs behind them, and where some of the most interesting examples can be found. Simon will also discuss his project of taking casts from selected coal hole covers and transforming them into ceramic Coal Hole Bowls.