The Name Of The Rose exhibition opens at Fairfax House in York

In The Name Of The Rose, is the the second exhibition in the Castlegate museum’s 250th anniversary programme and explores the secretive world of allegiance during the Jacobite rebellions of 1715 and 1745.

It uncovers the use of signs to convey covert messages of loyalty to the cause of the exiled Stuarts.

Director Hannah Phillip said: “To be a Jacobite supporter was a very dangerous game. The stakes were high and if you were discovered you would be guilty of treason, and the death penalty would undoubtedly await you.

“Expressing allegiance therefore had to be done covertly and through a series of rituals, symbols and secret messages.

“Symbols are the key to this exhibition, and at the heart of it is the most potent and evocative symbol of all – the rose.

“The rose, used throughout Jacobite culture as a secret sign for the cause, inspired faith, courage and hope. In The Name Of The Rose reveals the many ways in which this symbol was put to bold use to express messages of support.”

The exhibition includes swords, paintings, jewellery, wine glasses, fans, swatches of tartan cut from Bonnie Prince Charlie’s clothing, and even locks of hair from Charles and Flora McDonald.

The objects have been gathered from the south of England to the north of Scotland; including pieces on loan from the V&A, British Museum, and the National Army Museum.

Ms Phillip said: “In The Name Of The Rose also links closely to the 9th Viscount Fairfax and his daughter Anne, who for years, have been suspected of being secret Jacobite sympathisers.

“The complex and elaborate symbol-rich stucco work with which they chose to ornament their York townhouse staircase could in fact unlock the truth about their allegiances.

“We invite people to come and look and make their own minds up as to where the truth lies.”

The exhibition opens on Friday, and will run until December 31. For more information visit fairfaxhouse.co.uk