The rear staircase that was added in 1830 to Monmouth's Shire Hall is quite an unimpressive structure simply folding back and forth as it rises. That is until the top floor is reached when we find above us an unfluted Greek Doric arcade that helps to support a rather fine octagonal lantern that lights the staircase. This appears to have been recently restored as the Wedgwood blue and white paintwork shows. In the centre is a feathered flower that is the focus of eight bead strips. The octagon sits in a square with each of the four corners featuring a fluted, shell-like fan.
photo © T. Boughen Camera: Nikon Z 5
