Rye Pottery

The Reeve

Probably not one of the most charming characters but without doubt a good business head; once again The Reeve proves the timeless  quality in Chaucer’s writing,  every Pilgrim can still be recognised today over 600 years later.

There is wonderful detail on the Reeve, intricate stripes on his tunic that are very tricky to paint, as well as beautifully detailed keys.

The Reeve was old and choleric and thin;

His beard was shaven closely to the skin.

He kept his bins and garners very trim;

No auditors could gain a point on him.

No bailiff, serf or herdsman dared to kick,

He knew their dodges, knew their every trick.