One of the greatest contributions to medieval art in England is surprisingly little known. The cathedral at Norwich has over one thousand decorated roof bosses, now well restored, with a wide range of themes, religious, secular, even what can be described as pagan. Many have that touch of medieval humour so often found in carvings in English churches.
  Creation of the bosses began around 1300. An extensive rebuilding began then following riot-led fires in the 1250s. The earliest bosses are found in the cloisters, which, being lower down, are much easier to see (and photograph) than those in other parts, such as the nave. There were further fires, particularly one in 1463 that destroyed the nave roof. Work continued until the end of the fifteenth century.
  The presbytery has 128 roof bosses, of which 94 show images of gold wells. A curious choice? At the time, the diocese of Norwich was presided over by Bishop Goldwell. A little egotistical, perhaps!