In the sanctuary, there is a fine example of a ‘sedilia’ – stone seating for the clergy. Hidden in the vaulting of each bay are pendants of angels holding musical instruments. Above the central seat, there is an impression of a brass. It once depicted a crucifix and a kneeling figure which is said to be of St. John. In 1938, Archibald Jackson observed traces of ancient painting upon the sedilia’s back wall. This reminds us that the medieval church was brightly coloured and was probably painted red and ochre.
Adjacent to the sedilia is a very beautiful ‘piscina’, a wash basin in which the chalice and paten were washed during medieval mass.
Both the sedilia and piscina evoke the style of the Decorated Period (1280-1380).
