Canterbury Cathedral Priory in the age of Becket
By: Peter Fergusson
Publisher: Published for the Paul Mellon Centre for Studies in British Art by Yale University Press; Paul Mellon Centre for Studies in British Art; Paul Mellon Centre
Published: 2011
Place of publication: New Haven [Conn.]
Language: eng
Number of pages: 190
ISBN-13: 9780300175691
Subjects: Architecture and society; Church architecture; History; Christ Church Priory (Canterbury, England); Art patronage
Description: "This fascinating book recounts the extensive building program that took place at Canterbury Cathedral Priory, England, from 1153 to 1167, during the time when Thomas Becket served as Royal Chancellor and then as archbishop of Canterbury. Masterminded by Prior Wibert, the renewal included the physical expansion of the cathedral's precinct, the construction of new buildings, and the installation of a pioneering pressurized water system. This ambitious undertaking utilized a Late Romanesque style, lavish materials, and sculpture, and drew on the optimism and creative energy of the young Angevin rulers of England, Henry II and his queen, Eleanor of Aquitaine. Canterbury Cathedral Priory in the Age of Becket reassesses the surviving remains and relates them to important changes in Benedictine monasticism concerned with hospitality, hygiene, the administration of law, liturgy, and the care of the sick. It also restores to history a neglected major patron of unusual breadth and accomplishments. Peter Fergusson sheds fresh light on the social and cultural history of the mid-12th century." -- Publisher's description.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references (p. 172-182) and index.
Table of contents: title: Introduction; title: The extent of Prior Wibert's renewal; title: Prior Wibert; title: The Eadwine Psalter drawings of the Priory Precinct; title: The great cloister; title: The architecture of hospitality for distinguished guests; title: The green court; title: Care of the sick and aged : the infirmary and related buildings; title: Cathedral church enhancements and related buildings; title: Context; title: Appendix A. The priory chapter's 1167 obit of Wibert; title: Appendix B. List of priors and archbishops in the twelfth century.