Visitors to Hereford Cathedral will be able to view one of its treasures, the enamelled reliquary of St Thomas Becket, when it goes on display this Friday and Saturday in the cathedral’s Mappa Mundi & Chained Library.
For two nights only, a rare Becket treasure will be on display at Hereford Cathedral
The Becket reliquary is one of several made in Limoges, in south-western France around the years 1200-1210, just decades after Becket’s martyrdom.
It would originally have held a relic of the saint himself and would have been placed on the altar that was dedicated to Becket.
It is a reminder of the important role that relics played within medieval life, and especially the popularity of St Thomas Becket, murdered in his own cathedral in 1170 and canonised as a saint in 1173.
The reliquary is not normally on public display, but for these two days only, it will be available to view within the Mappa Mundi & Chained Library, alongside the current exhibition Seeds of Eternity.
As part of this offer, the cathedral has organised an exclusive evening event this Friday where they can admire the Becket Reliquary at their leisure followed by a talk on its fascinating history.
Jennifer Dumbelton, Hereford Cathedral Librarian, said:
“We’re excited to share our Becket reliquary, a world-class piece of art with sister pieces in institutions like the V&A. We know the exclusive Friday night viewing and talk will create a special atmosphere for visitors.”
The Becket reliquary will be on display in the Mappa Mundi and Chained Library Exhibition throughout Friday 15 and Saturday 16 November, from 10 am to 5 pm (last admission at 4.30 pm). Normal admission prices apply.
Tickets for the Friday event which include a glass of wine and nibbles are available here.
Photo credit Hereford Cathedral
