Here the great rood is supported by an arched beam, over the entrance of
the choir, and as it is some years since I visited this church, I am not
prepared to state positively if this is the ancient arrangement; but as
I have never seen a corresponding example in a Pointed church where the
fittings are coeval with the date of the edifice, I should greatly doubt
it; especially as it is most certain that this portion of the building
has undergone considerable alterations in adapting it to the Lutheran
rites.
The ancient arrangement of these German screens, with the central altar
and side doors, is often depicted in pictures by the early masters. I
may mention one remarkable instance at the Gallery of the Academy,
Antwerp. The background of a small picture of our Blessed Lady
represents the interior of a church. The screen is depicted as of grey
marble, supported on porphyry pillars. The holy doors, of perforated
brass-work, are closed, and the whole is surmounted by a rood and
accompanying images. The arms of the cross are supported by elaborate
metal chains, descending from the vaulting.