The lavatorium (‘washing place’) in the north walk of the cloister is decorated with a delightful small-scale fan vault. The trough with its drainage holes would have been lead-lined, and on the shelf behind there would have been lead tanks with taps at the front. The lavatorium was used for hand-washing before meals. The whole community of monks would line up in order of precedence to wash and dry their hands. They would then process in silence into the refectory. The open alcove opposite the lavatorium is where their towels were hung.*
The cloister lavatorium was glazed in 1868 by John Hardman of Birmingham using designs by Powell.
The main lights, appropriately for the monastic washing area, illustrate episodes from Christ’s ministry associated with water, the one exception being the lights furthest east, which depict creation. The glass is of the highest quality and among the finest in the cathedral.*
*From Gloucester Cathedral FAITH, ART AND ARCHITECTURE: 1000 YEARS by Chapter of Gloucester Cathedral 2011
I don’t know if there any lavatorium here in United States
I think perhaps Laveriums, predate the archaeological history of America.
This is such an unique place. I admire your pictures of the Gloucester Cathedral. Maybe later this year in September we are going to visit this cathedral with Lisl. That would be a wonderful day.
Mr C and I would love to meet up with you Ginnie and Lisl there. If you let us know when we can meet with you there if you like
I remember reading that before the first glass was put in the windows, the spaces were filled with vellum, which would have given some light
Vellum covering the windows would have provided quite a different light to the space. I wonder if before that the window spaces where not covered at all…
isn’t this an interesting place Cherie… love the window….peter:)
It is a wonderful space Peter
Your visit, tells me you are feeling better which I am glad about
Did I tell you that we will be visiting Lisl and Chris in September, Cherry, and it’s possible Gloucester Cathedral will be on our list…because of YOU!
Lisl mentioned to me that you wanted her to take you to Gloucester Cathedral when you visit later this year. If you let me know when it is we might be able to meet you there
If you would like 
It is years since I’ve had the pleasure of visiting Gloucester cathedral. It’s on my looooonnnngg list of paces to get when I retire during the summer.
It is well worth a visit. If you go in the summer months the portable labyrinth should be laid out too.