Corona, Hereford Cathedral

These days we are so accustomed to seeing the word "corona" followed by the word "virus" that any other meaning of the word surprises us. In fact, the word comes from the Latin for "crown", and is used as a synonym for that royal head-wear. By extension it is also used to describe a wreath, a ring, a diadem and even the outer atmosphere of the sun that is visible in a total eclipse. Consequently it comes as no surprise to see the word describe the golden "zig-zag" ring that hangs above the altar under the tower crossing of Hereford Cathedral. Incidentally, one of the pearl-like lighting features hangs in each transept and is quite separate from the corona, only looking adjacent because of the point from which I took the photograph.

photos © T. Boughen     Camera: Lumix FZ1000 2

Altar and corona, Hereford Cathedral

It is the modern way to bring cathedral altars forward from the choir so that the congregation in the nave can take more part in the service. Hereford has done this, and further accentuated the location by the addition of a corona hanging above the altar. The backdrop is the choir stalls, the original high altar the Norman arch and the Early English lancets and architecture of the Lady Chapel. From 1863 to 1967 an elaborate screen of iron, copper, brass, enamel, mosaic and polished stones hid the choir from view, Its removal was controversial and it now resides in the Victoria & Albert Museum's Ironwork Galleries. Some would like to see it returned. I think it is best left there.

photo © T. Boughen     Camera: Sony DSC-RX100