The Significance of St Cuthbert's Vestments*. (4th January 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Miller, Maureen C.
• Is Part Of: Studies in church history. Volume 47(2011)
• Page Start: 90
• Page End: 102
• Publication Date: 2016-01-04
• Subjects: 270
• DOI: 10.1017/S0424208400000875
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0424-2084

Abstract

Abstract : Sanctity is a quality first perceived, then acclaimed, contested or affirmed. Most commonly the visual perception of sanctity took the form of witnessing miracles: individuals saw with their own eyes divine power working through another human being. The development of the cult of the saints in western Europe, however, gave rise to a rich visual and material culture. The tombs of saints and the churches dedicated to them were adorned with precious works of art intended to glorify the holy patron. This essay considers quite intimate gifts: articles of clothing laid on the body of a saint. It moves from a particular set of vestments left at a saint's shrine to wider considerations of what the clergy wore during the central Middle Ages. Liturgical attire might not only honour the sanctity of a long-venerated individual but might also be used to claim sanctity for others.