Church Monuments

By Crusader1307

As old as the 7th Century, ‘’Church Monuments’’ were important ways to honor The Dead. Normally located inside a Chapel, Church or Cathedral, they ranged from elaborate plaques to murals. As time progressed, massive Effigy Monuments were constructed. These were often made of stone or marble and were actually the lid to one's coffin (or in some cases the Vault lid). Intricately, full-sized images of the dead were carved, often in full finery. Knights would have their arms (sword, shield and often in full armor) – included. Kings and Queens would be “displayed” in their Royal dress (often with their Symbols of State). So elaborate, that modern Historians often have an idea as to exact appearance of the person and the style of weapons and clothing worn. Many were also painted (to give an even more life-like quality). Much of the painted examples have long since faded with time. During The early Crusades, Effigy Monuments were quite popular. Often, many Nobles who fought in The Wars did not return. The construction of the monument was a form of remembrance one's family could achieve. Crusading Knights are often “carved” with their legs crossed (a sign of their participation in The Wars. With these monuments often came elaborate other “figures” carved in support of the dead Nobleman or woman. Stone “Mourners” or “Weepers” were made as were various animals, plants and flowers. One's Coat-of-Arms was another popular form of Church Monument often used.

 Another form of Church Monument were Brass or Stone Wall Reliefs. Often serving the same purpose (without the body), these Reliefs were a very popular art form in many Medieval Churches to honor the dead. It is often speculated that the practice started with The Catholic and Orthodox Churches style of displaying certain “non-corrupted” Saints for veneration. As Protestantism took root throughout Europe, the practice of Church Monuments decreased in use (in favor of paintings in most cases). A revival began in Victorian England, in which more elaborate Effigy Monuments were constructed (some for out of doors use and veneration). Mural Stones also were popular (especially in Medieval France). These were 2-dimensional representations of Effigy Monuments. Often the “Subject” was sitting or in some “heroic” pose. This led to the development of Busts and the popular “Cameo Portraits” seen in thru 16th and 17th Centuries. England, France and Germany still boast some of the finest Effigy Monuments still surviving into Modern Times.