A Fine and Rare Medieval English Roof Boss

In early Christian symbolism, the owl, a bird of night and darkness, stands for the devil and his works. Here the owl is carved amongst stylised leaves and berries, looking towards a Gothic arched window – perhaps this represents light or just a symbol of the church’s architecture, as almost certainly the boss would have been cared for a church or monastery.

Flat roof bosses can be seen at a few English churches, but especially at Selby Abbey, where many depict birds and animals.

See “Roof Bosses in Medieval Churches” by C J P Cave, Cambridge University Press, 1948, photographs 194 to 201.

Width 12.75 inches, height 11.75 inches, depth 0.75 inches.

Ref 2495

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