The Firing

A reimagining of the life of an extraordinary 18^th century woman.

Eleanor Coade (1733-1821) was a British sculptor and businesswoman whose artificial stone was used by every leading architect of her day.  Coade stone can still be found throughout London – from Bloomsbury to Buckingham Palace – across the UK, and around the world.

Millions see her stone every day.  Few know her story.

Eleanor wants to sculpt, but family bankruptcy forces her into work. She becomes a linen draper – a trade open to women.  Trapped in the role of family provider, she finds inspiration in the statuary and stonework of Georgian London. When she buys a failing artificial stone manufactory, she hopes to transform its fortunes. But, as an unmarried woman, can she succeed in the patriarchal worlds of art and business? And what of her dreams of marriage and children?

Gripping and immersive, The Firing is a rags to riches story of talent, determination, creativity and friendship.

‘Shiban is a brilliant writer… a thoroughly compelling – and highly recommended – read.’ John Foster, BBC Antiques Roadshow Expert

'An enjoyable imagining of this extraordinary woman's life.' Hannah Hartwell, Coade Ltd