CULTURAL BUILDINGS A MEDIEVAL MARVEL
We take a look at how a conservation project of a centuries-old tiling masterpiece has protected it so it can be enjoyed by visitors for years to come.
A stunning and significant medieval pavement at Somerset’s Cleeve Abbey has been given a new lease of life thanks to conservation work by registered charity, English Heritage.
The tiled floor is the abbey’s crowning glory and an extremely rare survivor. Adorned end to end with high quality heraldic tiles, dating from around 1270, it is the only large-scale example of a decorated medieval monastic refectory floor in Britain.
Buried in the late 15th century when the First Refectory which surrounded it was demolished, the pavement was only rediscovered in 1876, and from the 1950s to the year 2000 it remained fully exposed throughout the summer months. Studies showed that this exposure to the elements was causing serious damage – with loss of protective glazing and wearing away of the intricate patterns in the clay.
In recent years, English Heritage have carried out extensive research and monitoring and have unveiled a purpose-built, state-of-the-art timber shelter to cover the medieval pavement – ensuring the rare tiles are protected for years to come.
Complete with seating and a viewing platform, the structure has been carefully designed to create a stable environment which reduces future deterioration of the tiles. Timber louvres control ventilation through
►
The medieval pavement is now undercover in a new state of the art timber shelter - © English Heritage
▼
The tiles are given a final clean by
conservators - © English Heritage
The Cistercian abbey of Cleeve was founded in the late 12th century, built to the strict principles of the Cistercian order in a simple, unadorned style. During the 15th century, the abbey was remodelled and the First Refectory was demolished. The original tiled pavement was buried and all but forgotten until its rediscovery in 1876. In remarkably good condition, thanks in part to the centuries left untouched underground, the tiles are not only beautiful examples of craftsmanship but also add to our understanding of the abbey’s story.
Still laid in their original position, the tiles show the footprint of that long lost medieval building; they also reflect the importance the abbey attached to the royal patronage it enjoyed in the 13th century. The heraldry of King Henry III, his brother Richard Earl of Cornwall, King of the Romans, and the mighty earls of Gloucester all feature. Such displays of heraldry suggest a hefty endowment from noblemen and royalty, and declared Cleeve’s association with its patrons to the world.
A project to monitor the condition of the tiles began in 1999, when it became clear the elements were taking their toll on their delicate decoration. More recently, a temporary marquee was trialled to test the impact of providing a shelter to protect the tiles. These trials found
— 24 —
www.tomorrowstileandstone.co.uk
the interior, and roof lights allow natural daylight, whilst ensuring that no direct sunlight falls onto the sensitive tiled pavement.
Jeremy Ashbee, English Heritage’s Historic Properties Curator, commented: “Cleeve Abbey is one of our national treasures. Set in truly beautiful surroundings, rare surviving buildings in which medieval monks met, ate and slept, the medieval pavement of the lost refectory is a highlight.
“This is a real masterpiece of craftsmanship and design, and it tells an intriguing story about the monks and the great lords and ladies who supported them.
“The new shelter building means that the pavement is safe from the damage of sun and rain but, crucially, all visitors are now able to see it and enjoy it.”
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36
