The Shrine Cover
Hung directly above St Cuthbert’s shrine is a cover, often referred to as a ‘tester’, a type of canopy.
Architect Sir Ninian Comper (1864-1960) made this shrine cover. He is considered to be the greatest church furnisher since Sir Christopher Wren (1632-1723).
Material & Design
Made between 1949-1950 the cover weighs a staggering half a tonne and can be moved up and down on pulleys.
This beautifully gilded and vivid piece shows Jesus Christ surrounded by symbols of the four Evangelists. The architect’s signature palette is rose red, bright blue and white. Although the original medieval cover was made of cloth, the design is based on what it might have looked like in the mid-sixteenth century.
History
The original shrine cover
According to Durham records, the original shrine cover was made of beautifully embroidered cloth. Much as the current one does, it was lifted by pulleys, for special occasions.
The original design showed Jesus on a rainbow on one side, and on the other, Jesus as a baby being carried by Mary.
Around the edges of the cover were six silver bells, making a lovely sound for the raising ceremony and helping to gather people in the cathedral.
Follow the guided tour
You’re in: The Shrine of St Cuthbert You’re at: The Shrine Cover Next stop: The Boundary Line
- Now look on the floor around the edges of St Cuthbert's grave.