Foliage

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Boss ID
C-C2e
Subjects

Mid-fifteenth-century

Two leaves joined together on a stem at the base of the boss. The sweeping graceful lines of each form is enhanced further with vein lines following their natural curvature. A small circular object is also shown under the left leaf.

Natural forms are found throughout English churches in the medieval period. These sometimes represent a specific plant with symbolic meaning or can be more abstracted. This may be a depiction of oak leaves, with the circular object intended to be a small acorn. These trees have pagan roots and are often associated with mystic symbolism. It also has many biblical references, particularly in the Old Testament. 

This decoration originally appeared in devotional books and manuscripts before being imitated in church carvings. These often intricate and diverse designs are able to reflect the beauty of the world which surrounded them.

The ceiling in the chancel was repainted in 1862,and again in the late 1930s.

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