Is quite simply a bell jar formed of a solid piece of glass shaped like a dome with a knob or finial on the top. The French developed the cloche for the intended purpose of protecting early garden plants from cold and frost as well as promoting growth of young seedlings. Many gardeners however would break off the knob or finial of a glass cloche because it tended to act like a magnifying glass during use. The additional heat would often kill or damage the very plants the cloche was designed to protect.
Since that time, cloches have evolved....coming in from the outdoors to adorn treasures, cover sweets and cheeses, house collectibles and showcase photos - all the while protecting delicate items from the elements without sacrificing visibility. My quest is to locate (and eventually I will) a vintage cloche to cover and complement my treasured ship's compass (see post dated November 20, 2009).
I love cloche's, they are so pretty, and they obviously have a very special job to do. Hugs, Cindy S
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