Grave Stone With Rebus

Contributed by Holy Trinity York Churches Conservation Trust

A rebus is an artistic device in which the name of the object depicted stands for the sound of words or syllables. It operates as a pictogram.

On this gravestone is a tall cross on either side of which is incised a picture of a fish and a cooking pot. This pictogram probably represents the individual's occupation or name. This person was possibly a medieval fishmonger or was called Mr. Fishpot.

Rebuses were not only used on gravestones but were also used as signs and symbols for individuals and place names. For example, Raveningham's village sign in Norfolk depicts a raven, which is a rebus, the raven standing for the beginning of the name of the village.

Comments are closed for this object

Most of the content on A History of the World is created by the contributors, who are the museums and members of the public. The views expressed are theirs and unless specifically stated are not those of the BBC or the British Museum. The BBC is not responsible for the content of any external sites referenced. In the event that you consider anything on this page to be in breach of the site’s House Rules please Flag This Object.

About this object

Click a button to explore other objects in the timeline

Location

Holy Trinity Church, York

Culture
Period
Theme
Size
Colour
Material

View more objects from people in North Yorkshire.

Find out more

BBC © 2014The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read more.

This page is best viewed in an up-to-date web browser with style sheets (CSS) enabled. While you will be able to view the content of this page in your current browser, you will not be able to get the full visual experience. Please consider upgrading your browser software or enabling style sheets (CSS) if you are able to do so.