Page:Archaeological Journal, Volume 8.djvu/197

ST. MAIJY TUK VIKOIX, OXFoKl). 141 beginning- of the sixteenth century, ;ind others of more modern and less laudable design. The ^vindo^vs in tlic five bays on each side of the chancel ascend from an elevated basement to the parapet in two tiers of triple compartments, divided by a transom. Inter- nally, the wall below the uppermost window on the nortli side is recessed, and decorated with panelling which termi- nates upon a stone bench at the height of three feet from the ]iresent floor. The east window is in seven compartments of one height, above an uniform series of niches forming the reredos. The sodilia, occupying their usual position in the south wall, retain enough of their ancient enrichments to show that they were of equal excellence both in design and execution. Whether the south wall contains a piscina or an ambry to the east of the sedilia, cannot be ascertained without removing the modern wooden panelling by which it is at present concealed. On the north side, a plain chamfered doorwa}^ communi- cates with a sacristy, which appears to have been introduced at a comparatively late period between the chancel and the old Congregation House. It is now disused and desecrated.^ The nave is of six bays, with aisles of equal width ; a construction which in the west front exhibits an elevation of commanding character, and an admirable combination of appropriate architecture. But notwithstanding the admira- tion which has been justly bestowed upon this portion of the fabric, it must be admitted that, when compared with the chance], it presents in the depression of the arches, in the management of the tracery in the clerestory windows, and in the treatment of some of the mouldings, some indications of that departure from the leading principles of the earlier styles which mark the progressive decline of mediajval architecture. The porch which covers the principal entrance to the south aisle, no longer presents an exterior with any claims to admiration. It was erected in 1637, at the cost of Dr. Morgan Owen, chaplain to Archbishop Laud. The expense of its construction was 200/., principally employed in producing ornaments, which do not contrast favoui-ably with ■■• It is understood to be the intention of the parisliioners to repair aud restore this structure to its ancient use. VOL. Tin. V