Ghost Room Ceiling Carvings

The images of various animals and plants on the ceiling show how people in the past used pictures to communicate messages as well as words, important when people were unable to read.

The vines symbolise strength and the Boar's head emphasises the family links to Bradford (through the legend of the Bradford Boar). Images such as the Rose emphasised loyalty to the crown, the dog represented steadfastness and faithfulness, whilst the monkey, which can represent foolishness is probably used to symbolise cunning or cleverness.

You can also see birds, called Martlets, which were on the shields of the families associated with the Hall - the Bollings and the Tempests.

They show us what the owners thought was important to them, and that they wanted people to know this, as these carvings are in the room used for guests.