Illustrated Dictionary of British Churches - Misericord Definition

History and Architecture

Misericord

The term misericord translates from the Latin as 'mercy seat', and that's precisely what it was; a small ledge, or seat, attached to the underside of a pew or choir seat, to provide a merciful and very welcome place for clergy to rest during long periods of standing during lengthy medieval sermons.

Misericords were often elaborately carved, and it is these carvings that make studying them so fascinating. The carvings might be of mythological creatures, religious symbols, grotesque beasts, Green Men, and a wide variety of other unusual and striking symbols.

Related: Choir   Grotesque  




National Trust

National Trust membership

National Trust membership

Free entry to National Trust properties throughout England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, plus discounted admission to National Trust for Scotland properties.

Membership details

About the National Trust


HISTORY CORNER
Name the mystery historic attraction
See larger image



Sir Francis Drake famously completed his game of what pastime before sailing out to meet the Spanish Armada?



09 July, 1540

Henry VIII's marriage with Anne of Cleves annulled

The couple had only married on 6 January

This king was held responsible for the death of Archbishop Thomas Becket



Passionate about British Heritage!