History Extra Podcast: "Secrets of Medieval Churches" – Detailed Summary

Release Date: December 18, 2024
Host: David Musgrove
Guest: Andrew Ziminski, Stonemason, Conservator, and Author of "Church Going"

Introduction

In the episode titled "Secrets of Medieval Churches," host David Musgrove engages in an insightful conversation with Andrew Ziminski, a seasoned stonemason and conservator with over four decades of experience in restoring medieval churches. Andrew is also the author of the book "Church Going," which delves into the intricacies and lesser-known aspects of medieval religious structures. The discussion explores the unique architectural features of medieval churches, the impact of the Reformation, the symbolism behind gargoyles and grotesques, and the enduring legacy of medieval masons.

Andrew Ziminski’s Background and Motivation

[03:00] Andrew Ziminski:
Andrew begins by sharing his extensive experience as a church stonemason and conservator. He explains that his book, "Church Going," originated from his passion for educating visitors during his restoration projects. Observing that many people didn’t fully grasp the significance of the architectural elements they admired, Andrew created handouts to elucidate the features and furnishings of medieval churches. This initiative eventually blossomed into his comprehensive book.

Exploring Overlooked Architectural Features

The Piscina and Its Significance

[04:00] Andrew Ziminski:
Andrew introduces the piscina, a small basin located beside the altar in every medieval church. He explains its liturgical purpose:

“A piscina is a small basin that you'd find beside the altar... they had to be carefully washed within this basin” ([04:00]).

The piscina was essential for cleansing the sacred vessels after the Eucharist, ensuring that the wine (symbolizing the blood of Christ) was disposed of respectfully. Interestingly, Andrew notes that these basins often contain peculiar items such as pins, buckles, and coins, indicating a folk tradition aimed at warding off malevolent spirits—an example of apotropaism.

Apotropaic Symbols and Practices

[05:49] Host:
The term apotropaism is introduced, referring to practices intended to ward off evil spirits. Andrew elaborates:

“It comes from the Greek to turn away spirits with evil intent... these are spirits that are determined to get into your cow byre, to curdle the cow's milk, or even to get into the church” ([05:56]).

He highlights various apotropaic elements within churches, including graffiti and symbolic designs like daisy wheels, which have been used for thousands of years to protect sacred spaces.

Architectural Formula of Pre-Reformation Churches

[06:56] Andrew Ziminski:
Andrew outlines the standardized layout of pre-Reformation churches:

“Everyone who's familiar with the church will understand that it faces east... there will be a chancel... the nave would be the people's part of the church” ([06:56]).

He describes key components such as the chancel, sedilia (seats for priests), screen, and the nave, emphasizing the uniformity in church designs across regions.

Impact of the Reformation on Medieval Churches

[08:16] Andrew Ziminski:
Andrew reflects on the devastating effects of the Reformation:

“It sort of makes me weep. I've seen so much destruction in my career... wholesale destruction of artworks, sculpture, anything that was considered idolatrous” ([08:16]).

He explains how successive monarchs, notably Henry VIII and Edward VI, led acts of iconoclasm that stripped churches of their rich decorations, wall paintings, and sculptures, fundamentally altering their appearance and spiritual ambiance.

Modern-Day Church Appearance

[09:04] Andrew Ziminski:
Contrasting the past and present, Andrew points out that today’s churches often appear sparse due to Victorian renovations that removed plaster and original decorations:

“Everything would have been whitewashed... artworks on the wall that would have had a religious theme would have just been despoiled or obliterated or painted over” ([09:04]).

Exterior Features: Gargoyles vs. Grotesques

Defining Gargoyles and Grotesques

[13:07] Andrew Ziminski:
Andrew distinguishes between gargoyles and grotesques:

“Grotesque figures are just sculptural forms... Gargoyles... their purpose was practical... to throw water from the roof as far from the church as possible” ([13:07]).

While both serve decorative and symbolic roles, gargoyles have a functional purpose as waterspouts, whereas grotesques are purely ornamental, designed to ward off evil without any utility.

Examples and Artistic Variations

[14:22] Andrew Ziminski:
Sharing personal experiences, Andrew cites specific churches:

“Kilpeck Church in Herefordshire has the finest example of a shield and gig... depicting figures like the master mason holding his mallet” ([14:22]).

He contrasts the grotesques at Winchcombe with those at Steeple Ashton, highlighting the diverse artistic expressions and the possibility of identifying individual masons through stylistic similarities.

Symbolism of Rude Statues and Genitalia

[16:54] Andrew Ziminski:
Andrew addresses the presence of rude statues—carved representations of genitalia—in medieval churches:

“Kilpeck is the most famous example where she is a lady displaying her private parts... very public manner” ([16:54]).

He suggests these carvings were not merely decorative or humorous but held devotional significance, particularly for women in the community, possibly serving protective or fertility-related purposes.

[18:04] Andrew Ziminski:
On the subject of genital carvings:

“The genitalia cut into leadwork is definitely local people... more devotional and more important to the women of their community” ([18:04]).

Andrew posits that these elements were imbued with symbolic meanings beyond mere earthly humor, reflecting deeper spiritual or protective intentions.

Identifying Medieval Masons Through Architectural Signatures

[18:28] Andrew Ziminski:
Andrew delves into the craftsmanship of medieval masons:

“I can see the hands of these builders very clearly in these towers... you can see it's the same mason that's hand at work” ([18:28]).

He explains how consistent mortar mixes, stone sourcing, and specific carving techniques allow modern conservators to attribute certain architectural features to individual or familial mason groups. This continuity in craftsmanship underscores the artisanal traditions passed down through generations.

Conclusion

Andrew Ziminski’s expertise offers listeners a profound appreciation for the intricate details and historical significance of medieval churches. His book, "Church Going," serves as a testament to the rich, often overlooked elements that define these sacred structures. By uncovering the symbolic meanings behind architectural features and understanding the lasting impact of historical events like the Reformation, Andrew provides a comprehensive exploration of Britain's ecclesiastical heritage. His passion for masonry and conservation not only preserves these historical edifices but also bridges the gap between past and present craftsmanship.

Notable Quotes:

• Andrew Ziminski [04:00]:
  “A piscina is a small basin that you'd find beside the altar... they had to be carefully washed within this basin.”

• Andrew Ziminski [05:56]:
  “It comes from the Greek to turn away spirits with evil intent... these are spirits that are determined to get into your cow byre, to curdle the cow's milk, or even to get into the church.”

• Andrew Ziminski [08:16]:
  “It sort of makes me weep. I've seen so much destruction in my career... wholesale destruction of artworks, sculpture, anything that was considered idolatrous.”

• Andrew Ziminski [13:07]:
  “Grotesque figures are just sculptural forms... Gargoyles... their purpose was practical... to throw water from the roof as far from the church as possible.”

• Andrew Ziminski [18:28]:
  “I can see the hands of these builders very clearly in these towers... you can see it's the same mason that's hand at work.”

This episode provides a rich exploration of medieval church architecture, blending historical insight with the hands-on experiences of a master conservator. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a casual listener, the "Secrets of Medieval Churches" episode offers a captivating journey into the past, revealing the hidden stories etched in stone.