Imaginative use of available building materials could provide striking colour effects which contribute t the distinctive local character of much medieval architecture.

The use of stone and knappedGlossary Term flint for decorative exterior effect was a technique which was developed from the 14th century in the wealthy area of East Anglia, where there was a lack of good quality freestoneGlossary Term for carving.

Only fragmentary evidence remains to show that both sculpture as well as flat surfaces were often enhanced by colour.