In anticipation of the upcoming installation of the new Dean of Newcastle, the Revd Canon Lee Batson, an exhibition at Newcastle Cathedral is set to explore the intricate designs adorning the copes worn by its Dean and Residentiary Canons.
‘Copes of Many Colours’ will run from 4 October until 20 November, offering an examination of the vibrant ceremonial garments donned by priests and bishops for special occasions. Copes, which have been in use since the 8th century, are semi-circular in shape, draping over the wearer’s body, creating a cape-like appearance, with an open front secured by a hook or brooch at the chest. In the 20th century, hooded copes made a resurgence, and the copes at the Cathedral, crafted in 2014 by artists Linda Schwab and Sally Greaves-Lord based in Yorkshire, feature this unique hooded design.
These copes beautifully intertwine elements of worship and northern heritage, drawing inspiration from the stories of local saints as well as those from afar. The eye-catching shield-shaped hoods are adorned with screen-printed designs, each dedicated to a specific saint, including St Cuthbert, St Osmund, St Benedict Biscop and St Finan.
The artists explain: “Look closely and you’ll see reeds and feathers and the play of sunlight on the water; you’ll see images of Tyneside’s industrial and engineering past: the girders and rivets and graceful curves that make up the structures of the city’s great bridges”.
Notably, the Dean’s hood pays tribute to St Nicholas, the patron saint of the Cathedral. It incorporates three gold circles, symbolising the three bags or gold balls that the saint, in one version of his legend, delivered down the chimney of three poor sisters – a gesture that later inspired the generosity of modern-day Santa Claus. Additionally, the design features an old-fashioned rowing ship and the iconic silhouette of the Cathedral’s Lantern Tower. For centuries, this remarkable structure served as a beacon of light for ships navigating the River Tyne, a fitting connection since St Nicholas is the patron saint of seafarers.
The exhibition will showcase a curated selection of the Cathedral’s copes alongside examples of the artists’ work-in-progress designs. It will also provide insights into the inspiration behind these colourful creations. The new Dean will be clothed in the cope bearing this unique hood by the Residentiary Canons of the Cathedral as part of the collation, induction, and installation service on Saturday 14 October at 3pm.