Commemorative plaque 52112

This blue commemorative plaque records: WEST CHILTINGTON St Mary’s wall paintings Prehistoric and Roman remains have been found in the parish, and the Sinnocks, a curious local road name, was a medieval common field. You can see the old village stocks and whipping post prominently placed by the churchyard wall. A church was recorded in the Domesday record (1086), probably on this site, but the present building dates mainly from the 1100s. Entering the church you will see paintings in the south aisle, on the arches and south wall of the nave that have been dated to the 1150s. These include an Annunciation and Nativity with shepherds, both appropriate for a church dedicated to St Mary. There is evidence for new paintings being made over these in the 1300s, and a Christ with tools and a St Christopher date from the 1400s. The colours are still remarkably fresh, and remind us that early churches were often a riot of colour. Recorded plaque organisation: Horsham District Council.

St Mary’s church in West Chiltington contains significant medieval wall paintings dating back to the 1150s, including depictions of the Annunciation and Nativity, which provide valuable insights into medieval religious art and practices. The preservation of these artworks offers a rare glimpse into the visual culture and devotion of the period.