Illustrated Dictionary of British Churches - Sedilia Definition

History and Architecture

Sedilia

From the Latin sedile, or seat. A sedilia is a canopied seat, or set of multiple seats, set into a recess in the south wall of the chancel, near the altar. The sedila were used by clergy as seating during services. One and two seat sedilia's are common, and in some caes there are three or more seats under the same extended canopy. The canopies in particular can be highly decorated, with elaborate carving, often of foliage, but just as frequently with heads of kings, queens, or religious figures.

Related: Altar   Canopy   Chancel  



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