Bell's Cathedrals: Southwark Cathedral Part 11

[47] The "table of the high altar" was the reredos, only exposed on high days, this cloth or upper frontal concealing it at other times.

The reredos must not be confused with the great altar screen: it was quite small, and was immediately at the back of the altar itself.

[48] "Hangings for altars above and beneath" include frontals and upper frontals, the latter taking the place of the reredos, or being used to cover it at ordinary times. Some of these hangings may be "riddels" or curtains to hang at the ends of the altar. These used to hang at right angles to the reredos, and close to the altar ends.

[49] _I.e._, a funeral pall.

[50] Shamrock or trefoil.

[51] A cushion to lay the altar book upon. Such cushions were often very rich and handsome, and in the days of large books and fine bindings were almost necessary. They were much more general than desks.

[52] _I.e._, a frontal; the same word is used in the Canon of 1603, which orders a frontal.

[53] Four great standard candlesticks to stand on the pavement before the altar. Large churches often had more than two standard lights. The pair of small standards (the next entry) were probably for one of the lesser altars.

[54] Probably included under "Latten" by mistake or carelessness.

[55] _Ibid._

[56] _Ibid._

[57] This ornament was used in one or two processions when the Holy Eucharist was carried. The "burrall" is the gla.s.s in the middle wherein the Sacrament was placed. Only rich churches possessed this ornament, which was of very late introduction. It is needless to add that the still more modern service of Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament was never in use in England.

[58] Probably to stand on the high altar.

[59] Perhaps held a relic.

[60] To stand on the high altar for ornament.

[61] Two censers were commonly carried side by side in procession in England.

[62] Incense-boat.

[63] The "maser" is quoted as "given to the Wardens when they meet to drink on."