The sixteenth century bridges late medieval tradition and early TUDOR religious change. Early C16 churches continued the Perpendicular Gothic style of the C15, but the Reformation profoundly altered interiors. ROOD SCREEN were dismantled or defaced, WALL PAINTINGS were whitewashed, and medieval STAINED GLASS was often destroyed. New forms of decoration emerged, including ROYAL ARMS and later HATCHMENT, reflecting the shift toward royal and national identity.

Furnishings from this century reflect evolving liturgical priorities. PULPIT and LECTERN gained prominence as preaching became central to Protestant worship. Some churches retained earlier MISERICORDS or TILES, creating a layered visual record of pre‑ and post‑Reformation aesthetics. MONUMENT from this period often feature classical motifs that look back to ROMAN antiquity. The century marks a decisive break from the richly symbolic medieval world, yet many earlier features survived beneath layers of later alteration.