A medieval framework or canopy placed over a tomb or coffin, often decorated; also a rigid framework or structure.
From Old French 'herce' or Medieval Latin 'hercia,' related to 'harrow,' because the framework resembled a harrow's structure with parallel bars or spikes.
The herse in medieval churches was sometimes so elaborate that it required its own craftspeople to construct—ornate wooden herses were status symbols showing how important the deceased person was to the community.
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