Divine Art

The main work on the ceiling was carried out in the 19th century, while William Holland was rector. To me it is the dedication and perseverance of Mildred Holland who, over many years, set on a course to beautify the church at which her husband had a living.

It should be realised that what scaffolding there was, would have been fairly primitive compared to today. According to Jobson she was lifted into position. At times she would have had to lie on her back, or squeeze herself into small areas to finish parts of the roof.

At that time the priest would have been responsible for the upkeep of the chancel and the parishioners the knave. But the rector's wife painted and embellished both.
Her final results may not be admired or appreciated, but it is the fact that she set out to carry out a work to the glory of God, and kept at it, that prods me to suggest that this church and the results of her endeavours be named as inspirational art.

Norman Scarfe in his 'Shell Guide of Suffolk' records that "between 1859 and 1882 that over £2,000 was spent on the church, the rector's wife gaily bedizening with her paints both chancel and knave roofs" But the aforementioned website indicates that not all those monies were expended on the roof decorations.

[ A dictionary definition of bedizening is "decorate tastelessly; dress up garishly and tastelessly". But I would argue that such is one man's opinion. As Schopenhauer wrote: "You must treat a work of art like a great man; stand before it and wait patiently 'til it deigns to speak"]

Alan Jobson in his book 'Suffolk Villages' writes, "The decorated ceiling of Huntingfield church is the work of a Mrs. Holland, wife of a former rector, who laboured patiently under difficult circumstances. She was raised into position and left for hours at a stretch until the task was accomplished"