Arthur Bell’s Delft tiles

News in the Bournemouth Daily Echo and national papers that Delft tiles have been found during a house demolition in Southbourne is  a surprise.

If you are walking the coast path today you might just catch the last of the late Victorian house on the north-west corner of Twynham Road and Foxholes Road.

The tiles were part of a fireplace hidden by later owners.

The corner residence was built for artist Arthur Bell (1849-1916) and his author wife Nancy R E Meugens. His work survives and her books are still in print.

The house had a large window at the back overlooking a big garden. Paintings produced here include one of sheep on the meadow leading to nearby Hengistbury Head.

Living nearby at the time  and fascinated by the countryside was James Elroy Flecker who featured it in his poem Brumana.

A little further down Foxholes Road, towards Tuckton, was Foxholes, home of Edinburgh Review Henry Reeve editor who enjoyed the view.

 

About Leigh Hatts

Leigh Hatts is an experienced walker and has known the local coastline since childhood. He is the author of many successful walking guides.
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