Illustrated Dictionary of British Churches - Boss Definition

History and Architecture

Boss

A carved ornamental projection at the junction of stone vaulting ribs or the beams of a timber roof. Initially quite simple, throughout the medieval period bosses became ever larger and more elaborately decorated.  Bosses could be carved or painted, or both. The range of decorative styles is practically unlimited; some bosses are carved with human faces, some with religious symbols, but just as frequently they could be decorated with grotesque mythological beasts or semi-pagan symbols like the Green Man.

Related: Vaulting   Green Man   Grotesque  




English Heritage

English Heritage membership

English Heritage membership

Free entry to English Heritage properties throughout England, plus discounted admission to Historic Scotland and Cadw properties in Scotland and Wales.

Membership details

About English Heritage


HISTORY CORNER
Name the mystery historic attraction
See larger image



Elizabeth Talbot (1518-1608), Countess of Shrewsbury, was popularly known as ...



12 February, 1554

Lady Jane Grey executed

Grey became famous as the 'Nine Days Queen', a pawn in the ambitions of the Earl of Northumberland

This king was married twice, the second time to Joan of Navarre



Passionate about British Heritage!