Rights Managed > Historic England > Heritage > Conservation and restoration
Carlisle Cathedral JLP01_10_13952
Filename: jlp01_10_13952.jpg
Size: 5218 x 6647 (6.5MB)
Date: 11th October 2021
Source: Historic England
Credit: A© Historic England Archive. Joh
Copyright Status: Copyrighted Work
Source: Historic England Archive
Owner URL: https://images.historicenglandservices.org.uk/
© Historic England Archive. John Laing Photographic Collection
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Historic England
Carlisle Cathedral JLP01_10_13952
CARLISLE CATHEDRAL, CARLISLE, CUMBRIA. A Laing stonemason working on the restoration of the east window at Carlisle Cathedral, positioning a new piece of stone in the tracery using SBD Certite putty to bond it to the existing fabric.
In 1961, N M Phillips, the architect for Carlisle Cathedral started experimenting with the bonding material SBD Certite in the restoration of the cathedral. It was used on all but one of the decorated Gothic windows of the South Clerestory and later in the restoration of the north face of the cathedral. By using SBD Certite, Laing stonemasons were able to remove just the weathered surface of the stonework. New stone only two inches deep could be bonded to the old stone saving more of the original fabric of the building and cutting costs
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 23851518
© Historic England Archive. John Laing Photographic Collection
Cathedral Conservation Medieval People Renovation Work Stonemasonry
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a significant moment in the restoration of Carlisle Cathedral, located in the picturesque county of Cumbria. A skilled Laing stonemason can be seen diligently working on the intricate east window, carefully positioning a new piece of stone within its delicate tracery. What makes this restoration particularly remarkable is the innovative use of SBD Certite putty as a bonding material. In 1961, architect N M Phillips embarked on an experimental journey to restore Carlisle Cathedral using SBD Certite. This revolutionary technique allowed for the preservation of much more original fabric and reduced costs significantly. The South Clerestory's decorated Gothic windows were among the first beneficiaries of this method, followed by the cathedral's north face. By skillfully removing only weathered surfaces from existing stonework, Laing stonemasons could seamlessly bond new stones just two inches deep onto their predecessors. This meticulous process ensured that every detail and historical element was preserved with utmost care. The dedication and expertise showcased in this image exemplify not only the artistry involved in medieval conservation but also highlight how modern techniques can enhance such endeavors. It serves as a testament to both human ingenuity and our commitment to safeguarding architectural treasures for generations to come.
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