Tuesday 31 December 2013

Yorkshire Mason

Walk around to the back of the York Minster and a craftsman might be found plying a trade that would be as familiar today as is was back in the middle ages when the great cathedral was built.  Today the limestone, as then, is from a Yorkshire quarry. 
Many skilled craftsmen and women look after York Minster, not only to restore and recreate the historic masonry but also to replace those objects and grotesques that have been worn away by the Yorkshire weather.  The little area at the back of the minster is to show the public the mason's art. This particular Yorkshire mason said he likes being out here, although it seems some of his colleagues are more reticent as he was the only one on the day we visited. 
From a plain piece of  magnesium limestone comes a work of art, ready to slot into place on the Minster facade  


An entry to ABC Wednesday, a journey through the alphabet this week sojourning at Y


7 comments:

Leslie: said...

This sort of craft is going by the wayside in most places, but it's good to see this fellow's appreciation of the art aspect and his willingness to continue in the shoes of his ancestors.

Leslie
abcw team

photowannabe said...

I was going to say pretty much the same thing as Leslie.
I appreciate good craftsmanship.
Thank you for sharing and have a Happy New Year.

Richard Lawry said...

Amazing artistry! Happy New Year from An Arkie's Musings

Carver said...

Great take on the letter Y. I always love seeing craftsmen and woman continuing in time honored traditions. Carver, ABC Wed. Team

Lea said...

Great craftsmen!
Happy New Year!
Lea

Roger Owen Green said...

Skillz, as they say.

Louisette said...

Great craftsman,a job in disparition, and so important for restauratie great works our cities .
Have wonderfull days in year 2014 .