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Aidan McRae Thomson
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Thornton Brass, Newcastle Cathedral
Thornton Brass, Newcastle Cathedral

Medieval memorial brass to Roger Thornton, a fine example of Flemish artistry in brass dating from c1440 and originally installed on Thornton's tomb in All Saints church, Newcastle.

St Nicholas Cathedral in Newcastle upon Tyne was originally built as the main parish church, but was elevated to cathedral status upon the foundation of the new Diocese of Newcastle in 1882. Unlike a number of the elevated 'parish church cathedrals' it remains substantially as it was prior to it's raised status, the main changes effecting the furnishings rather than making any ambitious extensions to the building (since the church is somewhat hemmed in on all sides and was already a substantial cruciform building).

The church was founded as far back as 1091 but most of the present structure is the result of rebuilding in the 14th and 15th centuries, culminating in the astonishing west tower with its rare 'crown steeple' (a lantern carried on flying buttresses, the only surviving medieval example in England) which is the outstanding architectural feature of the cathedral and a major landmark of the city's skyline. Externally the rest of the building appears more modest by comparison with the soaring tower, its roof lying relatively low.

Within the impression is still that of a major city church rather than a cathedral owing to its dimensions, but the furnishings and fittings significantly enhance its grandeur. Despite the proportions (less height, more width) the footprint of the church is extensive with substantial transepts (below that on the north side is a small barrel-vaulted crypt) and a choir arranged with an ambulatory behind an impressive Victorian reredos. The choir stalls date from the elevation to cathedral status and do create the required effect of added gravitas despite the more limited space.

There are several impressive monuments from across the centuries, the most significant being the large Flemish-made 15th century brass situated at the rear of the high altar, originally from All Saints church and said to be the largest medieval brass in the country.

Newcastle Cathedral is one of the most rewarding of our 'parish church cathedrals' and deserves more time than I was able to devote to it on this trip.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newcastle_Cathedral

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Taken on: May 21, 2018
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Thornton Brass, Newcastle Cathedral

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