An extraordinary Stuart period carved oak beam bearing the name Jameyse Hancox, church warden and the date 1630 along with the name John Watt, carpenter.
The weathered appearance of the beam suggests it formed part of the exterior of a timber framed church, porch or perhaps the lychgate.
It was erected during the reign of Charles I, in the decade preceding the bloody English Civil War between Royalists and Parliamentarians which resulted in victory for the latter and the execution of the king in 1649.
The reverse side of the beam appears to show signs of historic fire damage with later fittings applied for wall mounting.
A truly remarkable survivor from one of the most turbulent periods in British history.
English, dated 1630.
Measurements: H: 13.25” (33.5cm); W: 39.25” (99.5cm); D: 4” (10cm).
