Late 15th-Century / Early 16th-century English Antique Carved Wooden Ceiling Boss

A decorative ceiling boss dating to the late 15th or early 16th century, carved from pine with traces of original polychrome. Floral in form and rich in Tudor Gothic symbolism, this ecclesiastical fragment offers insight into medieval craftsmanship, perfect for collectors of antique wood carvings and architectural salvage.

Historical Context: English Ceiling Bosses

Ceiling bosses—also known as roof bosses—are ornamental carvings placed at the junctions of ribs in vaulted ceilings, especially in medieval churches and cathedrals. Their evolution in England reflects both architectural ingenuity and cultural storytelling:

Origins & Development

• Introduced post-Norman Conquest (1066), bosses became widespread from the late 12th century onward.

• Initially structural, they soon evolved into decorative and symbolic features, often carved in stone or wood.#

Themes & Iconography

• Common motifs include:

  • Religious figures: saints, angels, biblical scenes

  • Foliate designs: vines, green men

  • Mythical creatures: dragons, mermaids

  • Domestic life: musicians, animals, humorous scenes

  • Moral allegories: sin, virtue, judgment

• Each boss was carved with intent—some to educate, others to entertain, and many to warn.

Regional Significance

• Churches like St Mary’s in Beverley house hundreds of Tudor-era bosses, especially in the nave and side aisles, dating from the early 16th century.

• These carvings reflect the worldview of Tudor England, just before the Reformation, and offer insight into local craftsmanship and belief systems.

Materials & Craftsmanship

• Wooden bosses, often carved from pine or oak, were common in parish churches.

• Many were polychromed (painted) and later restored in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Provenance - Unknown.

Condition - Please refer to the images. This boss displays very well.

Size - Height 16 cm x Width 15 cm x Depth 7 cm ( 6 1/3" x 5 7/8" x 2 3/4")