Pulpit
|
| This pulpit by Giovanni Pisano was cast after a marble original in the Cathedral, Pisa. The original is situated on the left side of the nave, before the crossing. This cast can be found in the Victoria and Albert Museum Cast Court, London. |
A pulpit is an elevated structure, typically made from stone or wood, for a preacher or reader to address the congregation. In the Catholic religion, the pulpit is reserved for members of the clergy. The word pulpit originates from the Latin 'pulpitum' which means platform or staging.
Pulpits may be fitted with an acoustic canopy above and sometimes behind the preacher. Often made from wood, this canopy (referred to as a sounding board, tester or abat-voix) can help project the speaker’s voice.
Pulpits were initially incorporated into church buildings during the later Middle Ages. A stand known as an ambo was used in the early Middle Ages, up until roughly the 14th century.
Pulpits are sometimes elaborately carved. During the Italian Renaissance, pulpit reliefs were often undertaken as commissions by artists.
In some Protestant churches, the pulpit is considered the most important piece of furniture in the sanctuary. In both Protestant and Catholic churches, the pulpit is often placed in a position that projects closer to the congregation.
In English churches, there are a few instances of pulpits on wheels, which allowed them to be placed in an optimal position. There are also instances in Anglican churches where three-decker pulpits can be found. These combined a reading desk, a clerk’s stall and a preacher’s platform - one above the other.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Retired firefighter cycles world to raise Grenfell funds
Leaving on 14 June 2025 Stephen will raise money for youth and schools through the Grenfell Foundation.
Key points for construction at a glance with industry reactions.
Functionality, visibility and sustainability
The simpler approach to specification.
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.