Taper marks

One ritual protection mark notable by its absence are taper burn marks. The practice of marking timber with scorch marks is recognised from the 13th century. They appear to have been burnt in during construction or the early life of the building, because seasonal cracking can be seen distorting the marks. Numerous are found at at Gainsborough Old Hall (opens PDF), Lincolsnhire. In the Steward's Room, these cluster on timbers opposite the brick fireplace (figure 1). Some timbers have a density of 25 burn marks.

At Donington Le Heath Manor House, Leicestershire, taper burns can be securely dated to after 1614-1618 renovations. At Gainsborough, timbers were covered over with brick circa 1600. Such timbers where visible, are free of marks.

At Grantham House a third floor was added in the 18th century this has a taper mark (figure 2). Knole's laundry features burn marks are datable to the 1870s (Wright 2019 at 49 minutes). The Mansion at Belton has taper marks in the wine cellar (figure 4).

The simple explanation is that marking the wooden fabric with a controlled flame acted as a form of protective “inoculation” against fire. But protection against witchcraft and malign spirits is also posited.

The 2018 renovation of the Stables has allowed us a chance to inspect its interior in detail. No taper marks are visible. This may relate to the fabric. Most fireplaces are of stone so unmarkable that way. The walls are lime putty plastered with few exposed, accessible beams. Other walls are of brick or stone and so unmarkable.