Exeter Cathedral is to display fascinating treasures from its collections for the first time in a brand-new exhibition space.
Located in the cathedral’s 19th century Pearson Building, the new ‘Treasures Exhibition’ will offer the public a chance to view some of the cathedral’s most ancient and precious collections, which have never before been on permanent display. From the cathedral’s extensive historic library and archive collection, visitors can expect to see the cathedral’s foundation charter dating back to 1050; Exon Domesday, the only surviving source for the Great Domesday Book; the only surviving examples of medieval wax votives in England, and the 10th century Exeter Book which is considered to be the oldest surviving book of English literature in the world.
The new space is part of Exeter Cathedral’s 2020s Development Appeal Project, which is supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund alongside The Wolfson Foundation, Garfield Weston Foundation and The Julia Rausing Trust. The project aims to connect visitors with their heritage while also making sure that the historic building is preserved for future generations.
Alongside the historical items in the exhibition, the space will also showcase a series of new works created throughout Exeter Cathedral’s series of community projects. Four newly crafted misericords – or ‘mercy seats’ – featuring intricate designs created by winners of a creative competition and hand-carved by woodcarver William Barsley, will soon be on public display. They will be shown alongside a new triptych textile artwork, inspired by themes of birth, marriage, and death, co-created by artist Davina Kirkpatrick and members of the local community. Upon arrival to the exhibition space, visitors will also hear a dedicated soundscape. Working alongside local schools and community groups, Soundscape Artists Nicole Redfern and Daniel Harvey created a bespoke composition using the sounds of the historic building to support visitors in engaging with their sensory experience.
For the Very Revd Jonathan Greener, Dean of Exeter, this is an exciting opportunity for visitors to engage with their heritage and see the cathedral’s special collections:
“I am delighted that the Treasures Exhibition is now opening at Exeter Cathedral. We care for a wide range of precious objects which until now, it has been almost impossible to put on display here in Devon. So, really for the first time, people will be able to see and appreciate some of the highlights of the cathedral’s collection, and this Exhibition will greatly enhance any visit.”
Stuart McLeod, Director of England – London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “It’s fantastic to see the new Treasures Exhibition open in Exeter Cathedral, sharing some of its remarkable heritage for the first time. Thanks to National Lottery players, visitors will now have the opportunity to explore some of the most significant and rare artefacts in our history, brought to life in a space that celebrates Exeter’s past and present thanks to the 2020s Development Appeal project. It’s a shining example of how heritage can inspire, educate and connect people across generations.”
The opening of the exhibition comes during the final phase of Exeter Cathedral’s development project which has seen approximately half of the Grade I listed heritage site conserved and refurbished to make sure the ancient building remains welcoming to all and here for generations to come.
Work will continue in the east end of the cathedral where a new sound and lighting system and more efficient heating are being installed, alongside accessible toilets and Changing Places facility. Visitors can also expect to see a new interpretation to explain the history of the cathedral. The final phase of the project is expected be completed next month.
