Extremely Rare Pair Of English 15th Century Oak Heraldic Panels With Rare Concentric Circle Apotropaic Witch Marks & Scorch Marks
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A rare pair of English 15th century oak heraldic panels, each depicting crests showing faint remnants of heraldry and crosses, accompanied by stylised clusters of fruit enclosed within blind tracery. On the reverse of one panel are two sets of concentric circles: one of a distinctive bullseye form or spiral, and another simpler example consisting of two circles.
Concentric circles and spirals are believed to have served an apotropaic function, intended to disorientate malevolent entities. Some historians have also suggested that they may represent the Five Holy Wounds of Christ or a protective eye.
Such marks have been recorded in church architecture and rural buildings throughout England, including Devon. These are particularly rare examples and, in the case of the bullseye or spiral motif, represent an especially early form of apotropaic marking.
My research has led me to another surviving example at Littlehempston Church, Devon. Although the church is believed to date from the 14th century, much of the present structure was constructed or rebuilt during the 15th century, corresponding closely with the date of these panels.
Within Littlehempston Church, near the south door, is a male effigy bearing concentric circles scored into the side of the head. Historians have interpreted these marks as having an apotropaic, or protective, purpose. I have attached a photograph of this example (see photo 18), and it closely resembles the concentric circles found on the reverse of my panel.
I have also identified an example of the simpler two circle motif at the Archbishop’s Palace complex in Kent (Medieval Barn / Great Hall remains). A matching apotropaic mark appears on a section of wall within the lean-to portion of the barn and former Great Hall (see photo 19). The date of this structure also corresponds with the period of these panels.
There is more. In addition to the concentric circles, traces of scorch marks can also be found on the panels.
The association between fire and protection from evil was central to many folk beliefs. It is widely thought that such scorch marks were deliberately created as part of apotropaic practices intended to avert evil influences or bad luck from buildings. Numerous examples survive in historic buildings throughout Britain.
I have included a photograph of some particularly fine examples of scorch marks on the wall studs in the kitchens at Haddon Hall, Derbyshire (see photo 20).
These are exceptionally rare examples of medieval apotropaic protection marks and are among the earliest I have encountered.
Condition is good, commensurate with age and use. Structurally stable. Age related wear. Signs of old woodworm.
Measures: Panel (1) 42.5cm (L) x 18.5cm (W) x 1.5cm (D) Panel (2) 48cm (L) x 19cm (W) x 2cm (D)
Weighs: Panel (1) 500 grams & Panel (2) 1000 grams
