4

Eagle House, in Mitcham, south west London, England, was built around 1706, probably for Fernando Mendez a royal physician.

On top of two brick piers at the front of the house is a statue of an eagle with a rabbit in its talons.

Eagle House statue

Fernando Mendez was Jewish and lived in Portugal. He converted (‘Marrano’). The chosen name Fernando Mendez was an attempt to fit in, was the eagle and rabbit in the same vein?

Was the eagle and rabbit common in Spain and Portugal at that time?

What does it signify?

Improve this question
10
  • "As Jews had no recognized position in the feudal system after this period, they could not use these devices, though for some time they were ranked with nobles, and had the right of deciding their disputes by duel. Consequently, no Jewish coats of arms were recognized by the heralds in the Middle Ages; though rich Jewish families of means used devices, as is shown by the occurrence of heraldic Seals." JewishEncyclopedia - Did Mendez convert? Is there any evidence that the statues have a meaning?
    – MCW ♦
    Commented Mar 24, 2021 at 11:49
  • Spanish imperial eagle?
    – ThirstforKnowledge
    Commented Mar 24, 2021 at 12:48
  • 3
    I've checked "Iconografía y Simbolismo del arte ibérico" by David de la Garma and eagles with rabbits or hares in their claws were common in Spain and Portugal until the 18th century (the end of the Baroque era) as "a symbol of the power of God over mankind". But this was Christian symbology, not Jewish.
    – Carlos Martin
    Commented Mar 24, 2021 at 14:07
  • 1
    Thank you, @CarlosMartin - as he was a Jew who wanted to appear to be a Christian, then that would fit.
    – Wade B
    Commented Mar 24, 2021 at 14:27
  • 1
    @CarlosMartin I think that you should include your explanations and references as an answer
    – RubioRic
    Commented Mar 26, 2021 at 8:42

0

Reset to default

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.