II. The Doctrine of Regeneration

We know, as a fact, that from the earliest times, baptisteries and fonts were octagonal. We know also that the reason assigned, if not by S. Ambrose himself at least by one of his contemporaries, for this form was, that the number eight was symbolical of Regeneration. For as the old Creation was complete in seven days, so the number next ensuing may well be significative of the new.
Now none can deny that very much the greater number of fonts are in this shape. To prove this we will refer to those selected by the Cambridge Camden Society in the appendix to the second edition of their ' Few Words to Church-Builders.' There we find.
Octagonal.
Of
all other shapes
n Norman
. 15 .
• 43
Early English
. 19 .
• 30
Decorated .
. 24 .
I
Perpendicular
• 57 .
2
Total 115 76
Now, it is to be remembered, that the superior conveni- ence of a cylindrical or circular form, together with the wont of Norman architects rather to symbolise facts than doctrine, accounts for the comparatively small number of octagonal fonts in that style : in later ages their preponderance is overwhelming.
The symbolism sculptured on the sides of the font hardly falls under our consideration in this place. And besides, it has been fully detailed in the publications of the Cambridge Camden Society, and of Mr Poole. Whether the general octagonal uses of piers may not arise from a similar design, we do not pretend to decide.
One of the most apposite illustrations in corbels^
Examples of Symbolism Ixxxiii
consists in three fishes intertwined in an equilateral triangle ; and thus typifying our regeneration in the Three Persons of the Ever-Blessed Trinity. For it need not be said, that the fish is the emblem of the Christian, as being born again of water. The mystical vesica piscis of this form () wherein the Divinity, and (more rarely) the Blessed Virgin are represented has no reference, except in its name to a fish ; but represents the almond, the symbol of virginity, and self-production.