Reja

Reja is a Spanish term for grillwork. It refers to iron screens, often of a decorative nature.[1]

Domestic rejas

In a domestic context, rejas played a role in Spanish courtship rituals.[2]

Ecclesiastical rejas

Inside the cathedrals, fences were often placed in front of side chapels, the choir, or even in rood screens in front of the altar. [1][3] Such rejas are commonly 25 to 30 ft (7.5 to 9 meters) high.[3]

A reja in front of Capilla de Santa Librada.

Crafters who made rejas were known as rejeros, or reja-makers.[4]

Notes and references

  1. ^ a b Milliken, William M. "Decorative Ironwork." World Book Encyclopedia. 10th ed. 1972. 365-66.
  2. ^ Courtship in Granada. The Atlantic
  3. ^ a b "reja." Encyclopædia Britannica. 2009. Encyclopædia Britannica Online. 02 Apr. 2009 <http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/496745/reja>.
  4. ^ Byne, Arthur, and Mildred Stapley. Spanish Ironwork. 1915.