Stone matrix for a memorial brass

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The large stone slab in front of the altar is the matrix, or base, for a memorial brass. The brass inserts were probably removed during the Reformation (1517-1648) when churches across the country were stripped over their decorations.

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At the top of the matrix is the outline of a castle keep on a hill, this could well be Danby Castle, home of the De Brus family in the 11th century. Placed centrally below it is a small shield shape that contained a brass inlay probably illustrating the family's coat of arms. To the left is a tall rectangular panel which would have contained an image of a male figure and alongside that the rounded shoulders and covered head of a female figure are clearly visible.

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Near the left edge is a small indentation that could have contained a kneeling figure, typically a son and at the right hand edge is the clear outline of a group of kneeling female figures.

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The horizontal strip beneath the main figures contained descrip-tive text recording the names and dates. The roundels in the four corners may have featured the emblems of the four Apostles.

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It may well have been a memorial to Peter De Brus II (died 1242) and his wife with their son Peter De Brus III at the left and their daughters at the right. This is the only major family of that period with the matching combination of family members who would have been accorded such recognition.