The History and Mysteries of Europe’s Misericords Part II
Misericords, or Mercy Seats, are small ledges found under the folding seats in church choir stalls. Often hidden and usually overlooked, these seats were very important for monks during their long hours of worship.
The concept of misericords began in Germany in the 11th century and spread across Europe by the 13th century. Typically carved from a single panel of oak, though sometimes chestnut or other woods were used, they became an integral part of church architecture. However, the use of misericords dwindled in England, Wales, and Ireland after Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries in the mid-16th century.
Despite their historical significance, many misericords were lost over time. In Protestant regions, reformers saw them as idols and destroyed them. During the Napoleonic wars, many French misericords were removed to provide oak for shipbuilding. Additionally, some were discarded by locals who saw them as secular items, using them as firewood or cooking fuel. Given this widespread destruction, it’s remarkable that over 10,000 misericords still exist, with about half found in France and the United Kingdom across over 330 churches and other buildings.
Smaller but notable collections can be found in Belgium, Denmark, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Russia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. Comprehensive databases, such as the one developed by the late Prof. Elaine C. Block and stored at Princeton University, document these misericords with detailed descriptions and photographs.
The craftsmen behind these intricate carvings remain largely anonymous. These artisans often perfected their skills through long apprenticeships, often passed down from family members. Many belonged to guilds, and some rose to positions of master or grandmaster carvers. The creation of misericords was likely overseen and approved by master carvers and church clerics, ensuring the carvings had a purpose beyond mere decoration.
For those interested in viewing and photographing these misericords today, it’s worth noting that access can be challenging. While some churches offer guided tours that include choir stall carvings, many restrict access to these areas. To avoid any issues, it is best to seek permission from local church officials before visiting.
If you’re curious about how misericords helped medieval monks or want to learn more about their various designs and meanings, you might enjoy the previous and upcoming parts of the series on misericords. The first part covers the relief these seats provided, and the third and final part will delve into the diverse iconography found in these unique carvings.
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