Features of the publication
Cerne Abbas belfry
- Dorset belfries are outstandingly rich in their quality, diversity and historical interest, both pre- and post-Reformation, and these finely-produced books present a comprehensive survey of them. Of Dorset bells more than ten per cent (some 150) date from the mediaeval period; these, and many from the 16th and 17th centuries, are often remarkable for their beauty and craftsmanship.
- The inventory section of the work (alphabetically by parish) provides full particulars of bell-inscriptions, diameters and style of hanging, and comments on appearance, provenance, tone and tuning; also weights where available, and some detailed analysis of pitches in tabular form. Where extant, local or foundry records and facts about former bells are referred to.
- The interpretative and summarizing sections collate much valuable evidence concerning the careers of bell-founders and bell-hangers of all periods. One of the author's major achievements is the clarification of the Purdue dynasty, founders of importance in southwest England in the 17th century. In a similar process he identifies and assesses the work of the many different founders represented in the county. All this is published for the first time and to a standard very rarely equalled in this subject.
- Uniquely (surprisingly so!) in a work of this kind, there is a concern to evaluate the musical quality of the bells. In several cases the five principal tones of each bell have been measured (on an equal-temperament scale using hundredths of a semitone) and they are set out so that the reader can judge how near to, or distant from, harmonious tuning a particular bell or ring is. Tone is less definable than tuning, but the author has, through long experience as both ringer and investigator, developed a perceptive ear, and his opinions at least offer a consistent view.
- The copious photographic illustration of a very high standard is integral to the purpose of the work: drawing attention to many fine artefacts which, because of difficulty of access, have previously received little appreciation; and serving as an extensive resource for specialists making local or comparative studies. The author, a photographer by training, developed special techniques to deal with the challenge of the subject and the results represent a breakthrough for bell-archaeology.
- The thoroughness and accuracy in the collection and evaluation of the material have been the hallmark of the author, who has spent a life-time of active involvement in bell-archaeology, and who is now well-known in the field nationally as a leading authority.
