Subject
Church decoration and ornament Books
Best books
Francis Bond
Wood Carvings in English Churches I. Stalls and Tabernacle Work. II. Bishop's Thrones and Chancel Chairs.
"Wood Carvings in English Churches" by Francis Bond is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the art of wood carving in English churches, focusing specifically on stalls, tabernacle work, bishops' thrones, and chancel chairs from the medieval period to the Renaissance. It aims to highlight the significance and beauty of these often-overlooked examples of ecclesiastical craftsmanship, offering insights into their design, construction, and historical context. At the start of the book, the author provides a preamble stressing the value of stallwork in English churches, noting its rarity compared to similar works in other countries, many of which have been lost to neglect or destruction. Bond describes the architectural and artistic features of stalls used by monks and canons during services, detailing their intricate design elements such as canopies, supports, and ornamentation. He aims not only to inform readers about the significance of these wood carvings but also to inspire pride in England's rich artistic heritage.
T. Tindall (Thomas Tindall) Wildridge
The Grotesque in Church Art
"The Grotesque in Church Art" by T. Tindall Wildridge is a scholarly examination of the grotesque elements found in ecclesiastical artwork, written in the late 19th century. This work analyzes how various grotesque features in church art intertwine with historical, mythological, and artistic traditions, highlighting their significance and origins. The book explores the evolution of these artistic expressions and their reflection on the society that produced them. At the start of the book, the author provides a preface outlining the scope of the study and the types of grotesques that will be analyzed. He emphasizes the need for clear definitions and the relationship between church art and earlier pagan practices, suggesting that many church designs may have been derived from earlier religious forms. This opening establishes the foundation of Wildridge's arguments, as he prepares to delve deeper into the artistic qualities, historical context, and cultural significance of grotesques in church art throughout the book.
J. A. (Jacob Asbury) Regester
The worship of the Church, and the beauty of holiness
"The Worship of the Church and the Beauty of Holiness" by J. A. Regester is a religious guidebook written in the late 19th century. The text explores the significance of worship within the Christian faith, emphasizing both the communal acts of worship as well as the sacred nature of church buildings. It delves into the various aspects of worship, including symbolism, the structure of church buildings, and the role of the Prayer Book in guiding devout customs. The opening of the work introduces the fundamental role of worship in expressing the connection between humanity and God. Regester emphasizes that worship is not just a personal inclination, but a vital duty that encompasses public acknowledgment of belief and reverence for God. He notes that the church serves as a dedicated space for such worship, distinct from ordinary life, fostering a sense of community and reverence among worshipers. This section sets the stage for a detailed exploration of the church as a symbolic space, illustrating how every element within it, from architecture to furnishings, contributes to a holistic experience of worship and spiritual connection.
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