An eagle lectern is a lectern in the shape of an eagle on whose outstretched wings the Bible rests.[1] They are most common in Anglican churches and cathedrals, but their use predates the Reformation, and is also found in Catholic churches.
History
The tradition of using eagle-shaped lecterns predates the Reformation. Medieval examples survive in a number of English churches, including the church of St Margaret in Kings Lynn and the parish church in Ottery St Mary. The Dunkeld Lectern is another notable Medieval eagle lectern. Medieval lecterns often depict the eagle grasping a snake in its beak, and sometimes the bird has two heads.[2]
Symbolism
There are several theories regarding the symbolism of the eagle lectern. It is sometimes said to have derived from the belief that the bird was capable of staring into the sun and that Christians similarly were able to gaze unflinchingly at the revelation of the divine word.[1] Alternatively, the eagle was believed to be the bird that flew highest in the sky and was therefore closest to heaven, and symbolised the carrying of the word of God to the four corners of the world.[3] The eagle is also the symbol of John the Apostle, and for this reason may have come to represent the inspiration of the gospels as a whole.[4] Another theory holds that the eagle represents Christ.[2]
References
- 1 2 Taylor, Richard (2003). How to Read a Church: A Guide to Images, Symbols and Meaning and Cathedrals. London: Rider & Co. ISBN 1-84413-053-3.
- 1 2 Gahtan, Maia Wellington (2001). "The 'Evangelistario' from the Cathedral of Messina". The Journal of the Walters Art Museum. 59: 60–61. JSTOR 20168603.
- ↑ Delderfield, Eric R. (1966). A Guide to Church Furniture. Newton Abbot: David & Charles.
- ↑ Ferguson, George (1966). Signs and Symbols in Christian Art. New York: Oxford University Press.
