LINCOLN CATHEDRAL TREASURE HOUSE

Abstract

An unpublished document in the archives of Lincoln Cathedral reveals the function of the thirteenth-century annex attached to the south-east transept, naming it as the cathedral’s thesaurarium (‘treasury’). This paper explores the fittings and the functions of the various chambers of the thesaurarium of Lincoln Cathedral, including its splendid crypt. In addition, the paper will examine the extent to which the thesaurarium conforms to the type of ecclesiastical treasure house favoured by secular canons in England and abroad. The building’s design and architectural language testify to the decorum and respect accorded to church treasures and the importance attached to the task of providing them with accommodation worthy of their status.