The Guild Chapel, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire

The Guild Chapel in Stratford-upon-Avon has strong links to Stratford’s famous son. Not only is it literally across the road from New Place, William Shakespeare’s home, but his father, John, as town bailiff, was tasked with removing the wall paintings as part of the Reformation. He chose to cover them with limewash, which is why they survive to be enjoyed today.

[Not a valid template]

Inside the wood panelled chapel, practically all exposed stonework has some graffiti on it, but most of it is clustered on the two pillars between the nave and chancel. 

There are several names, Thomas, Roger, Will and a William. Yes, I know, it’s not going to be THAT William, but still…

[Not a valid template]

There are several Marian marks, in M and W form. There is also a curious, double Marian mark, which appears twice.

[Not a valid template]

The rest of the graffiti comprises dot patterns, mason’s marks, incomplete compass drawn circles, crosses, shields and initials.

[Not a valid template]

The Guild Chapel

Chapel Lane

Stratford Upon Avon

CV37 6EP

 

 

Report by Anthea Hawdon

Search terms: death poem, doom painting, guild chapel, stratford-upon-avon, Marian mark, W, initials, WI, Thomas, C, memorial, shield, BR, Roger, A, B, WB, dot marks, saltire cross, Double Marian mark, BI, TI, TR, AW, AB, IW, M, chevron design, WE, Will, AK, IR, mason’s mark, Compass drawn circles incomplete, Adam, dot pattern