Goosey Bench,
Merton College, Oxford

Oxford Oak was commissioned by Merton College to create a large oak bench to commemorate seven students. A Goosey bench was chosen as this large version seats four or more, and the wide backsplats are large enough to accommodate hand carved names and dates for each student as well as the college crest. The latin phrase carved in decorative italic letters along the back means “Seat of Honour”.

The bench is constructed in the traditional way with hand cut oak pegged mortice and tenon joints. The traditional style of the bench looks in harmony with the historic architectural setting.

The large Goosey bench being carried through Merton College gates
The bench was carried in to the Merton Chapel Garden with the welcome assistance of the Merton College Gardeners.
The large Goosey bench being carried through a dark corridor.
Oak Goosey Bench in Merton College Chapel Garden

The bench is located in the Chapel Garden under a lovely old spreading tree, amidst a lawn with spring flowering bulbs.

You can visit Merton College Gardens and try out the bench (for details please check the Merton College website).

Merton College crest carved on a back splat
Detail of the Merton College crest. All carving on the bench was by Brian Hempsted of Hand Cut Signs.

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