This interdisciplinary study interprets the façade of Wells Cathedral as an integral part of thirteenth-century English Church liturgy and politics. Carolyn Malone posits that architectural motifs, as signs, complemented not only the façadeâs sculptural program of the Church Triumphant but also its use during liturgical processions. Interpreted as an ideological construct, the façadeâs design is related to theological change, liturgical innovation and political strategy, as well as to the conjuncture of several major historical and cultural events of the 1220s. As part of the Churchâs empowering ritual, the façade expressed the reforming views of the Fourth Lateran Council, promoted Wells as the seat the diocese and proclaimed the covenant between Church and State in England following Magna Carta.
'...this is a book which will need to be consulted by all those interested in Wells cathedral and English façade design...'
Paul Williamson, The Burlington Magazine, 2005.
'In the breadth of its discussion of the religious, social, and political context for the remarkable facade at Wells, there is much in this book to provide food for thought and for debate...In terms of setting this enigmatic facade into its historical context, this is the fullest study to date and one that addresses a number of important issues of historical interpretation. It is a commendably bold attempt to collate diverse strands of evidence'
Peter Draper, Speculum, 2006.
List of Illustrations
Acknowledgements
Introduction
1. The Façade and its Producers
2. The Church Triumphant
3. The Production of Signs
4. Liturgical Practice
5. Eucharistic Practice
6. Ideological Strategies
Conclusion
Plates
Bibliography
Index
Because this study cuts across the boundaries of medieval art, architecture, liturgy, theology, and English history, it will be of interest to a broad audience, as well as to all art historians.