Every month we feature two blogs written by volunteers, one describes an object in the Palace and one a plant from the Garden. It is a great way for us all to learn more about the Palace. If you would like to contribute there is no set format so please do send us your ideas!
Having volunteered at Fulham Palace for two months now, I have had a chance to explore the grounds thoroughly. My favourite aspect is definitely the Bishops’ Tree. This magnificent cedar of Lebanon, featuring sculptures of several past Bishops of London, was carved by Andrew Frost in 2007.
Bishop Porteus, who used to be seen looking out from the top of the trunk from an excellent vantage point, has unfortunately since had to be taken down from his perch due to the instability of the tree. Bishop Porteus held the position of Bishop of London from 1787 until his death in 1809. During his lifetime he championed the anti-slavery movement. On close inspection, a second Bishop can be spotted climbing the tree. This is Bishop Creighton, who was at Fulham Palace just under a century later, from 1897 to 1901. He was a known historian with a passion for gardening. Fitting, then, that he should be immortalised in a tree, surrounded by the very natural environment that brought him so much joy!
A few more wonders can be seen on the tree, including sculptures of a cat and two Bishops’ ‘thrones’, which you can even sit on, should you be feeling particularly imperious! The Bishops’ Tree is a truly magical work of art. I love it not only for its beauty, but because it pays homage to the former inhabitants of the Palace, the Bishops, to whom we owe so much. They helped the Palace become the historical treasure and gardening attraction it is today. This tree illustrates a little piece of history.
Sumaya Steele – Marketing Volunteer
The wonderful Bishop’s Tree is sadly rotting from the outside in, and the inside out, so we’re in the process of working out how the carvings can be placed throughout the gardens to bring the Bishops of London to life in a safe way.
Rachel Bagnall-Bray, Volunteer Development Officer
Please send your ideas for Object / Specimen of the Month blogs to rachel.bagnall-bray@fulhampalace.org. If you would like some help, please let us know.