Rood screens first appeared in English and Welsh churches during the 14th century. The medieval rood screens of Devon are not only architectural features but also rich canvases that tell stories of saints, apostles, and prophets, offering insights into the religious and cultural milieu of medieval England. Devon is fortunate to have over 40 figurative rood screens left. The preservation and study of these remarkable artifacts contribute significantly to our understanding of the intersection of art, spirituality, and history in the region.
Rood screens evolved as monastic foundations added them to their churches. Parish churches followed suit a little later. The screen served to separate the chancel from the nave. A rood loft was built above the screen and this held sculptures of Christ on the cross (ie. the rood) and with Mary and John the Baptist as supporters. The screens often displayed great sculptural and painting embellishments. On holy days, various decorations and candles were added to the screen and loft via the rood stairs still visible in many churches today. During the Reformation most of the rood lofts were taken down - especially in the Elizabethan reign - but the screens were allowed to remain. Unfortunately, over the next 500 years many of Devon's figurative screens have disappeared - not least in Victorian times.
