13th Century Cope Chest In Salisbury Cathedral

This cope chest in Salisbury Cathedral is thought to be the oldest semi-circular cope chest in England, dating back to 1244.

This cope chest was used to store liturgical vestments, particularly copes, which are ceremonial cloaks worn by clergy during certain religious ceremonies.

These vestments are imbued with symbolic meaning and are designed to enhance the reverence and solemnity of worship services.

The unique shape of this ancient piece of furniture allowed the copes to be spread out to avoid wrinkling.

The cope chest is one of only seven surviving semi-circular cope chests in English cathedrals and a fine example of medieval timber and ironwork.

Copes are typically worn by bishops, priests, and sometimes deacons during various liturgical functions, such as processions, vespers, and other solemn occasions.

They are designed to add a sense of dignity, reverence, and grandeur to the liturgy.

In addition to their ceremonial significance, copes also serve a practical purpose, providing warmth and protection from the elements during outdoor processions and ceremonies.

Throughout the history of English cathedrals, copes have been important elements of the liturgical wardrobe and are often associated with the grandeur and splendor of cathedral worship.

Many cathedrals possess copes of historical significance, some of which date back centuries and are treasured as valuable artefacts reflecting the rich heritage of Christian worship in England.

Salisbury Cathedral is renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history - the cope chest is just one of many treasures housed within its ancient walls.

The survival of such an ancient piece of furniture is remarkable, providing a tangible link to the medieval period.

Other fine examples of cope chests can be seen at Wells Cathedral, York Minster and at Brampton.

The one at Sainsbury is on public display - so visitors can get up and close with this ancient piece of furniture.

In the 13th century, England saw significant developments in cathedral architecture and construction.

Several cathedrals were built or underwent major renovations during this period, reflecting the flourishing of Gothic architecture and the growing importance of cathedral cities as centres of religious and cultural life.

Construction of Salisbury Cathedral began in 1220 and was completed in 1258.

It is renowned for its soaring spire, which is the tallest in England, and its impressive Early English Gothic architecture.

The cathedral's interior is characterised by slender columns, pointed arches, and a sense of verticality that is typical of the Gothic style.

Salisbury Cathedral is also home to one of the four surviving original copies of the Magna Carta, the historic document signed in 1215 that laid the foundation for constitutional governance and the rule of law in England.

At its core, the Magna Carta aimed to curb the unchecked authority of the monarch and safeguard the rights and liberties of the nobility.

Among its provisions were safeguards against arbitrary imprisonment, protection of church rights, and limitations on taxation without representation.

Importantly, it laid the groundwork for the principle of due process of law, ensuring that justice would not be denied or delayed to any freeman.

The Magna Carta is displayed in the cathedral's Chapter House.

Meanwhile, the Salisbury Cathedral clock, which dates from about AD 1386, is supposedly the oldest working modern clock in the world.

The clock has no face; all clocks of that date rang out the hours on a bell.

It was originally in a bell tower that was demolished in 1792. Following this demolition, the clock was moved to the Cathedral Tower, where it was in operation until 1884.

The clock was then placed in storage and forgotten until it was discovered in an attic of the cathedral in 1928. It was repaired and restored to working order in 1956, and is now displayed in the nave.

The magnificent building attracts visitors from around the world.

Someone who recently visited the cathedral said: “Not only do you see the English Cathedral with the tallest spire but a font with running water and one of the four original copies of the Magna Carta.

”If you like these things and have a head for heights the tower tour is a must. Prebook and it doesn’t cost much more than the normal entry price. You will not be disappointed!”

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