Skull & Crossbones

Have you walked round the old part of the Churchyard at St James the Great Colwall?  You might need your boots for it is a bit uneven and this is the area that we keep longer for flowers and wildlife to flourish.  But it is well worth a wander to enjoy the character of the old stones and their engravings.   I particularly enjoy the old chest tombs with the worn remains of splendid symbolic images still evident and recognisable. These in the picture are probably mid 18th Century, having the sophistication of elaborate corner pillars and Rococo carving.  Don’t feel anxious about them falling open, the burial will be completely beneath the ground they stand on!

On the left the carvings are cherubic faces and clouds surmounted by a crown.  These represent the soul of the deceased on its way to heaven with the immortal Crown of the Christian life.

On the right, what is this?  I was surprised to see crossed bones and bat’s wings with  the remains of a carving of a skull!  Nothing to do with Pirates.  This imagery goes back to the medieval period and was a common mortality symbol.  The skull and crossbones were believed to be the parts of the body required for resurrection.

Resurrection and immortality, how appropriate as we go into the Easter period.

There are many other interesting gravestones to enjoy on a peaceful sunny stroll about the church.

Sue Bienkowska

Churchyard Champions are a small group of enthusiasts working alongside the management team at St James the Great Colwall to help the churchyard flourish.  We run monthly work parties to study and improve biodiversity in this ancient burial ground,  as well as promoting its heritage and history.  Anyone is welcome to join us between 10 and 12.30 on the 1st Saturday of the month from March to October.  Click here for details.