1) Altar shelf 2) One of a series of steps 
• (n.) Any member like a step, as the raised back of an altar or the like; a set raised over another. • (n.) A toothed chised by sculptors.
A shelf behind the altar, usually part of the reredos, on which the cross and candlesticks stand.
A shelf behind the altar, usually part of the reredos, on which the cross and candlesticks stand.
Gra·dine' noun [ French gradine .] A toothed chised by sculptors.