The sedilia in the south wall near the east end (Figs. [1103] and [1104]) is a very beautiful one, and is fairly well preserved. It contains the usual three seats indicated by three ogee crocketed arch-heads. These arches rest on carved capitals at each end (Fig. [1105]), and the intermediate ones on corbels supported by angels, one holding a shield, and the other playing on a voil. The sedilia is recessed about 13 inches, and is 6 feet 6¾ inches long (see Fig. [1103]) by about 5 feet 3 inches high from the seat to the springing of the arches. Between the sedilia and the east wall and below the sill of the window there has been a piscina, which has been cut away, and its position is merely indicated against the wall, as shown in Fig. [1103]. It appears to have been supported by a shaft from the floor. Adjoining this, in the east wall, is seen (see Fig. [1104]) a projecting corbel with a shield on the face. This was probably meant either to support a light or a figure in connection with the altar.

Fig. 1103.—The Collegiate Church of Dunglass. Sedilia and South Window in Choir.

In the sacristy there are on the side walls four consecration crosses at the points marked on the Plan.

There is a diversity of opinion as to the name of the founder and the date of the founding of the Church of Dunglass. According to Nisbet[89] it was founded by “Sir Thomas Home, in the reign of Robert III.” (1390-1406). He married Nicola or Nicolas Pepdie, who brought him the

Fig. 1104.—The Collegiate Church of Dunglass. Sedilia and South Window of Choir.

lordship of Dunglass, and their arms (Fig. [1106]), which adjoin the north transept window, Nisbet says are impaled, viz., the lion for Home, and the “three birds called papingoes, relative to the name of Pepdie.” In Keith’s Catalogue and by Spottiswoode we are told that the Collegiate Church of Dunglass was founded in the year 1450 by Sir Alexander Home of that Ilk. Chalmers, in the Caledonia, Vol. II. p. 512, says it was founded by Sir Alexander Home of Home in 1403. He was the son of Sir Thomas and Nicolas Pepdie. Sir James Hall, in a letter written in 1789 (see Hutton Collection), finds from examination, evidently of original documents in his possession, that it was founded by Sir Alexander in 1403. Dr. Laing also adopts this date as correct.[90] Perhaps, as above suggested, the choir and tower may have been built in 1403, while the nave was not erected till after 1450.

Fig. 1105. The Collegiate Church of Dunglass. Details of Sedilia. Fig. 1106. The Collegiate Church of Dunglass. Arms of Sir Thomas Home and his Wife in North Transept.