Todd gave a very
interesting talk, based on the research for his new book "Devon's Ancient Bench Ends"
Sadly as the
years have passed the meaning and purpose of the carvings have been lost, but
some depict a trade like cloth, wool and a cook with the little spit dog.
Church records in Devon can give an insight into the carvings
and they are thought to be the best in the UK.
Traditional
seating plans are unique to each parish, it is a myth that no there were not
seats in the churches as research shows the upgrading taking place across the
county over the years.
East Budleigh
pews can be dated back to early the 1530s, then in about 1600 box pews came into use, they even had curtains,
so that the congregation could only bee seen by the vicar from his high pulpit!
Then they evolved back to being equal open pews.
Harry Hems
carver (http://www.exetermemories.co.uk/em/_people/hems.php) also the Pinn Sisters were prominent carvers
in the 1800s.
Village art
traditions influenced the carvers themes.
In East Budleigh the Red Indian pew, or leaf head is unique. The carvings are
found to be unique to areas of the
County, with some influences from Somerset and Cornwall. Also you can see Demons
and folklore figures in the carvings.
Following the
talk I am sure many will be looking at the Devon Pews with a renewed interest.
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