The Chertsey Tiles, the Crusades, and Global Textile Motifs

Medieval England has been viewed as isolated, but a digital reconstruction of the Chertsey combat tiles reveals its connections with global textile traditions. An international team led by the author proposes new conclusions about the tiles' commissioning and significance.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 102 pages
Publication date: 21 December 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

While visual cultures intertwined seamlessly along the silk roads and along the shores of the Mediterranean, medieval England has occasionally been perceived – by both medieval and more recent writers – as isolated. In this Element, the author presents fresh evidence to argue that this understanding of medieval England's visual relationship to the rest of the world necessitates revision. An international team, led by the author, has successfully completed a digital reconstruction of the so-called Chertsey combat tiles, a sophisticated set of pictorial floor tiles crafted approximately around 1250 in England. This reconstruction encompasses both visual imagery and lost Latin texts, providing a comprehensive insight into these remarkable artifacts.

Based on the findings derived from the completion of this reconstruction, the author proposes novel conclusions regarding the historical context in which the Chertsey tiles were commissioned and their profound connections with global textile traditions. The author's meticulous research and innovative approach shed light on the intricate tapestry of cultural exchange that characterized medieval Europe, challenging previous assumptions and unveiling new perspectives on the artistic and cultural landscape of the era.

This Element serves as a valuable contribution to the field of medieval studies, offering a fresh perspective on the visual culture of medieval England and its global connections. It underscores the importance of interdisciplinary research and digital technologies in unraveling the mysteries of the past and shedding light on the rich heritage of medieval Europe.

Weight: 161g
ISBN-13: 9781009353175