Architectural Features
evidence of C12 fabric (re-used zigzag in a S window).
3-light E window with intersecting uncusped tracery and a moulding below the sill with carved ends.
The W and N doors are both late medieval.
The posts below the hammerbeams rise from corbels carved with demi-figures, the chancel carvings are winged angels.
The hammer beams are decorated with carved demi-figures of kings and queens at 45 degrees.
These are very intact with original heads, the nave figures holding shields with the symbols of the Crucifixion, the chancel figures are winged angels.
The lectern, reading desk, communion rail and altar are all in matching style: the lectern was designed by Cautley as a post World War II memorial.
The lectern was presented in 1957.
C19 timber drum pulpit on a wineglass stem.
The panels are carved with large-scale linenfold panelling.
Fine late medieval font with an octagonal bowl carved with the symbols of the Evangelists alternating with angles holding shields on an octagonal stem carved with stylised seated lions and slender buttresses.
TM1747 : St Mary, Magdalene: Westerfield: font detail (II)
Wall monuments are mostly early C19 and C20 and include a white marble wall monument with a nowy-headed frame to H Munro Cautley and his wife.
Stained glass includes three windows by the William Morris Co., the W window a fine example, and two windows by Powell and Sons, the E window designed by J Bouvier.
HISTORY The main part of the current church probably dates to between 1300
The church was refurbished in c 1400, when the hammerbeam roof was constructed and restored in 1867 when it was re-seated.
Pevsner, 1975 'Suffolk' p 478 A Guide to the Church of St Mary Magdalene, Westerfield, Suffolk, 1994 REASONS FOR DESIGNATION The church of St Mary Magdalene is designated at Grade I for the following principal reasons. * The church has a high survival of C14 , C15 and earlier fabric including a west tower of distinction. * The C15 hammerbeam roof is exceptionally fine in quality and craftsmanship and includes intact carved demi-figures on the hammerbeams and corbels. * There is an intricately carved late medieval font. * The interior fixtures and fittings include C19 stained glass by Morris and Co. and Powells and C20 furniture by H. Munro Cautley.