59 
DESIGN FOR A NEW FLOWER STAND. 
The accompanying- design for a Cast-iron Flower-garden stand was com- 
municated by our respected correspondent, Mr. Saul, of Lancaster, of whom the 
moulds may be had at a little cost. The figure represents a Swiss guard, in the fancy 
costume peculiar to the reign of Francis the First, in the sixteenth century. The 
dress consists of a jacket and short-kneed culottes (breeches), made of fine scarlet 
cloth, with sleeves, like those worn by the renowned Amadis of Gaul ; having 
narrow slashes, like stripes, filled in by very dark purple or black velvet. The 
culottes tie above the knee with large bows of rich tabby scarlet riband ; over this 
jacket is worn a coat of mail armour, of polished steel, which, notwithstanding its 
massy appearance, is very light, and fitted for general wear ; the breast-plate and 
corslet are beautifully wrought, as are the 'ornaments on the shoulders. The 
covering for the legs consists of a kind of stocking pantaloon made of deer skin ; 
on the feet are fastened scarlet sandals of morocco leather ; these merely cover the 
toes, where they are notched in accordance with the fashion of those days, and are 
kept firm on the foot by the leathern strap passing over the instep. The cap is 
made of scarlet cloth, with a battlement edge ; and, considered with the whole, has 
a suitable and striking effect. 
In each hand, the figure is 
represented as bearing a bason, 
or receptable for a flower 
pot ; and, if thought well, 
these will answer the purpose 
of a stand for cut flowers ; also, 
on the head, is represented 
another bason adapted to the 
same purposes. The whole is 
made of cast-iron, and may be 
painted any colour that the 
taste of the possessor may dic- 
tate. A grass green would 
look well, and pleasingly accord 
with the green foliage ; or it 
would have a novel, yet sin- 
gular appearance, if painted 
agreeable to the colour of the 
dress. We would refer the 
reader to pages 23 and 89 of 
the Second Volume, for figures 
and descriptions of two other 
flower-stands designed by Mr. 
Saul. 
