J Brit Archaeol Ass 149

Suggests that our view of the medieval master mason's methodology in respect of building design tends to be a partial one; that it fails to take account of some medieval architects' inherent empiricism. Bolton Castle is a building where it has been possible to reconstruct the process of design, and the conclusion drawn from it is that the design was not cut and dried prior to the commencement of building operations; rather it evolved as they progressed. It is shown that, in this, Bolton was not atypical and that such cases are a direct result of the medieval mason's craft based approach to his profession. Includes

Long confused with wall paintings in Halesowen parish church, the lost cycle of the life of St Kenelm in St Kenelm's Chapel, Romsley (Worcestershire) can be reconstructed with the help of detailed tracings made in 1845 which are reproduced here for the first time. This late fourteenth-century cycle is the only known narrative representation of the saint's life in any work of art, and includes a subject not found in literary sources. The paintings were executed over the site where, according to legend, the body of the murdered boy-king was hidden. They provide important evidence for the presentation and promotion of this ancient cult centre in the later Middle Ages.

Historical account of the careers of two gardeners, including details of the organisation of the royal gardens under Charles II and James II.

Discussion of the portrait head found during excavations at the Roman palace at Fishbourne, and believed to be a possible portrait of Togidubnus. The author suggests that although this identification is probable, the portrait was probably not carved in Britain.

Description and discussion of three glass gems apparently made in imitation of Byzantine or Roman intaglios, believed to derive from the area outside the former Roman Empire in north-west Europe.