Medieval British Art Treasures Celebrated as Free Alternatives to Bayeux Tapestry
A critic draws attention to the often-ignored treasures of medieval British art that are available to the public at no cost throughout the year, in stark contrast to the expensive and limited-time Bayeux Tapestry exhibition. The article details various carvings found in the crypt of Canterbury Cathedral, such as a grimacing figure with a man seated on his head, clutching a fish and bowl, a serpent-tailed creature battling a dog-like beast, a gryphon devouring a siren, and a separate carving of a horned devil. These artworks reflect the mystery, humor, and wonder of medieval British artistry, which is plentiful yet often overlooked. The critic emphasizes that after nearly 1,000 years, this art is poised for recognition, as tickets for the Bayeux Tapestry—priced at £33 for a mere 40 minutes—prompt a surge of interest. The piece honors the magnificent cathedrals and their extraordinary crypt carvings as lasting, free cultural heritage.
Key facts
- Bayeux Tapestry tickets cost £33 for 40 minutes.
- Canterbury Cathedral crypt contains a carved stone figure grimacing with a man sitting on its head.
- The man on the head holds a fish and bowl in outstretched arms.
- Other carvings include a creature with a serpent's tail wrestling a dog-like monstrosity.
- A gryphon eating a siren is also depicted.
- A detached carving of a horned devil is present.
- Medieval British art is described as full of wonder, mystery, and humour.
- The art is abundant but often taken for granted.
- After almost 1,000 years, medieval British art is about to have a moment.
Entities
Institutions
- Canterbury Cathedral
Locations
- Canterbury
- England