This is a late 12th century font made from Purbeck marble and Caen stone. This particular font is typically found in churches in southern and eastern England, made around the 12th and 13th centuries. While the present church structure dates from the 14th and 15th centuries, this font provides evidence that an older church stood in the same location.

Each panel around the font would have been highly painted and decorated. 

Whilst this font once had a locked cover to prevent people taking the holy water, the oak wooden lid currently in place was added c.1623-25. Lids such as these were fashionable in the 17th century and there are many examples throughout the UK.

The font has always been one of the most important features in the Christian church, used to baptise babies. It is usually located in the Western end of the church, near the entrance, symbolising the entry of those that have been baptised into the Church. 

This font is still in use today.

Image Copyright: Stella Fitzgerald @stella_fitzgerald

Discover more about the rich history of St Mary’s on our Heritage channel.