Devon’s Ancient Bench Ends.
£17.99
This is the first in-depth study of Devon’s Ancient Church Bench Ends and contrasts carvings in Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset with those of Devon. Features carvings by the Pinwill sisters, Mary Rashleigh Pinwill, Annie Ethel Pinwill and Violet Alice Pinwill. Illustrations of their work at Plympton St Mary and Highweek.
Description
Images of faith, irreverent creatures, flamboyantly attired men and women, and scenes from everyday life can all be found on Devon’s ancient bench ends. This collection, one of England’s largest, has a diversity of design with different traditions on the north and south coasts and yet remains largely unappreciated.
This is the first in-depth study and contrasts carvings in Cornwall, Somerset and Dorset with those of Devon. It shows how during the last 600 years bench ends were handcrafted in every parish, fell from favour after the Civil War and then saw a Victorian Renaissance. More than 2,500 survive in over 100 country churches waiting to be discovered and appreciated for their medieval workmanship. Different from those of Cornwall, Dorset and Somerset, the carvings are part of Devon’s rich historical legacy.
Publisher The Mint Press. This book has received a grant from English Heritage. Author Todd Gray, Paperback. 192 pages. Highly illustrated with 300 spectacular images, mainly colour photographsand also including some drawings and 3 maps. Size Height 231mm width 248mm
