Roslin Chapel, the Holy Table and the 'Prentice Pillar

Category

Library Item

Item no

15338

Title

Roslin Chapel, the Holy Table and the 'Prentice Pillar

Artist / maker

Inglis, Francis Caird

Date

1925

Size

11 x 16 cm

Type

Photograph; Reproduction

Location

Edinburgh and Scottish Collection

St Matthew's Chapel, also known as Rosslyn Chapel is located just outside the village of Roslin, roughly 7 miles from the centre of Edinburgh. It was established in the mid 15th century by Sir William St Clair, Prince of Orkney. Sir William St Clair died before the project could be completed, and what exists now is a fraction of the original cruciform plan. The chapel draws many visitors, and is famous for its ornately carved interior and its association with the Knights Templar, a mediaeval Christian military order which has recently been the subject of some popular fascination.

The 'Prentice Pillar dates to the 15th century and has carved dragons at its base and diagonally winding carvings around the outside. Its name comes from the 18th century legend which says that the pillar was carved by a precocious apprentice.

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Related subjects

Architecture > Architectural features > Arches

Architecture > Architectural features > Columns

Architecture > Architectural features > Pillars

Architecture > Architectural features > Stained glass

Architecture > Architectural features > Stone carvings

Architecture > Architectural features > Tracery windows

Furnishings > Ornamentation > Candle holders

Places > Scotland > Midlothian

Places > Scotland > Roslin

Religion > Religious facilities > Chapels

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