Page:Archaeological Journal, Volume 3.djvu/364

334 The only set of tablets, or trenchers, of this description, rectangular in form, hitherto noticed, are in the possession of Mrs. Bird, of Upton-on-Severn. They are twelve in number, formed of thin leaves, of some light-coloured wood, possibly that of the lime-tree, measuring about 5$3⁄4$ inches by 4$1⁄2$ inches, and enclosed in a wooden case formed like a book with clasps, the sides being decorated with an elegant arabesque design, imitating the patterns of impressed bindings, such as were found in the libraries of Grolier or Maioli. On removing a sliding piece which forms the upper margin of this little tome the tablets may be taken out. They are curiously painted and gilt, every one presenting a different design, and inscribed with verses from holy writ conveying some moral admonition. Each tablet relates to a distinct subject. These legends are enclosed in compartments, as shewn in the annexed representation, surrounded by various kinds of foliage and the old fashioned flowers of an English garden, the campion, honeysuckle, and gilliflower, each tablet being ornamented with a different flower. The trencher, of which a representation is given, bears the oak-leaf and acorns, and the texts inscribed upon it relate to the uncertainty of human life. Upon the others are found admonitions against