One of the most interesting memorials in Gloucester Cathedral is that dedicated to Alderman John Jones. Its style shouts seventeenth century and its organisation attempts to bring the deceased back to life by having a painted half-length effigy framed in an oval out of which he projects. The figure is surrounded by details proclaiming his status and also the carved tools of his office. Behind each column are folded deeds dated 1581-1630. He holds a further deed in one hand and in the other is a book. To left and right are stands with writing materials. What is, I presume, a staff of office is streched across the memorial below him. Left and right of the columns are pairs of implements, the use of which is unknown to me. I have seen memorials in this style in many major churches and have always enjoyed the sense of theatre with which they have been deliberately imbued.
photo © T. Boughen Camera: Nikon D5300
