Description
Dean’s Choice: Cathedral Treasures of England and Wales by Janet Gough
The Cathedrals of England and Wales are remarkable buildings. From the centuries leading up to the Norman Conquest to the tumults of the Reformation to the devastating wars of the twentieth century, they carry traces of our nations’ darkest moments and most brilliant endeavours.
This beautifully illustrated new volume tells the stories behind 50 remarkable artefacts -one for each cathedral- that have been preserved by the cathedrals of the Church of England and the Church of Wales. Featuring manuscripts such as the Magna Carta of Salisbury Cathedral as well as lesser known but equally fascinating shrines, sculptures and stained-glass windows, these local and national treasures are a vital part of our heritage. They also testify to the powerful and enduring links between cathedrals and the wider communities of which they are part.
We hope that the extraordinary range of fascinating treasures in this book will encourage you to visit and revisit the wonderful cathedrals of the Church of England and the Church of Wales, which are open to visitors for private prayer, divine service and enjoyment 365 days a year.
Janet Gough
‘The Leaves of Southwell’ voted the nation’s number one cathedral treasure
The results are in and it’s official: The Leaves of Southwell at Southwell Minster have been voted #1 in the Association of English Cathedrals (AEC) prestigious #CathedralTreasures competition.
The fluid carvings of plants, animals and green men found within the Chapter House – known collectively as ‘The Leaves of Southwell’ – are of quite exceptional quality. Regarded as the best example of 13th century naturalistic carving in the United Kingdom, they are globally important. The craftsmanship is truly something to behold and there are all manner of creatures, both real and mythical to be found hidden among the leaves.
The campaign was based on the latest volume by Janet Gough, OBE, author, lecturer and advisor on historic churches and cathedrals, called Deans’ Choice: Cathedral Treasures of England and Wales.
The volume tells the story of 50 treasures from 44 Church of England cathedrals and six cathedrals from the Church in Wales – each one was chosen by the Dean or senior clergy of the cathedral featured.
