[Illustration: No. 17.]
The Bracket annexed is out of the usual run of brackets which have
generally been ornamented with leather work. The vine and the
convolvulus pattern are much used with very beautiful effect. We
intended this design to exhibit old oak: it should be stained very dark,
the oak stems being very thick, while the stems of ivy can be formed of
tendrils. To make the oak stems get very thick wire, and have it cut to
the desired lengths, then cover the wires with leather, and bend them to
resemble knarled oak; attach, as naturally as possible, oak leaves and
acorns at the back of the wires, and on the wood work as shewn in the
skeleton bracket in a former part of this work; then attach the ivy
tendrils, leaves, and berries around the oak stems, and the bracket is
completed.
We have found it much improves the appearance of any piece of work we
have been ornamenting, to give the whole when completed a slight coat of
varnish.
[Decoration]