The rood screen was the visual focus of the medieval parish church, dividing the nave from the chancel. Most were built of wood and were adorned with intricate carved decoration painted in bright colours, often with images of saints. Defaced and often dismantled during the Reformation in the mid-sixteenth century, most surviving screens have been restored to their former glory since the nineteenth century and are now among the most prized treasures of our parish churches. This fully illustrated book explains the symbolic and practical significance of rood screens and describes the ways in which they were constructed and decorated. There is also an extensive list of churches in England and Wales where screens can be found.

A fascinating guide to the screens that separate church naves from their chancels, and their religious roles and symbolism.

About the Author
Richard Hayman is a medieval, industrial and architectural historian. He is the author of the Shire books Church Bench Ends and Misericords, The Green Man, and The Tudor Reformation. He lives in Shrewsbury, UK.


Book Information
ISBN 9781784422943
Author Mr Richard Hayman
Format Paperback
Page Count 64
Imprint Shire Publications
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Weight(grams) 154g