The Federation of Old Cornwall Societies is proud to announce the publication of a remarkable new book, Cornish Angels – Faces from the Stones, written by Alison Englefield with evocative colour photography by Clare Calder-Marshall.
This beautifully produced volume explores the unique and often overlooked depictions of angels carved on Cornish gravestones. Richly illustrated, it examines the artistry, symbolism and craftsmanship behind these expressive faces — many created by long-forgotten local carvers. While much of the material focuses on churchyards in North Cornwall, the book also includes examples from the Roseland and West Cornwall.
Englefield, herself an accomplished artist, reflects on the carvings as works of art, considering how changing ideas of beauty and fashion are captured in stone. The book also delves into the stories of the families commemorated and the evolving traditions behind angelic imagery. Calder-Marshall’s excellent photographs record these carvings in vivid detail — in some cases preserving them before lichen and time obscure them forever.
Cornish Angels – Faces from the Stones is available now from the Federation’s online shop:
https://kernowgoth.org/product/cornish-angels-faces-from-the-stones/
Copies will also be on sale at Truro Cathedral on the evening of Wednesday 10 December 2025.
The Federation is delighted to support this important and imaginative contribution to Cornwall’s heritage studies.