Medieval Wall Art - the views of an expert who has assessed them

danby wiske assessment of recently revealed wall paintings peter martindale 6 may 2026.pdf Download

As a result of recent redecoration work in the church, instances of wall painting on the south wall of the nave have been revealed. Redecoration work has been suspended so that an in-situ assessment of the wall paintings could be undertaken, and results from that assessment documented for the consideration of the Parish and those (like the Diocesan Advisory Council and their architect) who advise them. Redecoration to date has involved some plaster repair (using lime plaster) and repainting with limewash

One layer of early medieval painting has been identified so far, and traces of its presence have been found across the nave south wall. Findings at the eastern end of the south wall (next to the chancel arch) suggest that decoration extends into the reveal of adjacent window. It is likely that further traces / islands of paint remain under later layers of paint both on the south wall and into window reveals. This layer of medieval paint is likely to date from the C 14 when the church underwent extensive rebuilding, including raising the roof of the nave.

Black painted lettering from one post-Reformation text is clearly apparent, and it is possible that others may remain hidden under later layers of paint. Above the lettering there is a painted border, but that border would appear to comprise elements from two styles of border.

One a simpler linear border, and other more embellished with bead and reel decoration.

The condition of the revealed wall painting is fragile in a number of places. These revealed areas require conservation so as to preserve them for this and future generations. Flaking paint needs to be consolidated and areas of detached plaster secured.


The next steps are to get approval to do the conservation work and to raise funds. 

We are aiming to be able to do this work in 2027.