In describing some of the defining characteristics of Carthusian architecture, with specific focus on the liturgical architecture, Archdale King in Liturgies of the Religious Orders comments as follows:
The internal furnishing of [Carthusian] churches has been described by Dom Boso, prior of the Grande Chartreuse (1277-1313), in a letter to Pope Clement V (1305-14), who in 1310 had summoned him to the council of Vienne: The Carthusians, according to their institutions, have a crucifix in a 'solemn and eminent place, as well as over each altar... They avoid expensive curiosities in painting and sculpture, and variety of solemn and wonderful buildings not consonant with the roughness of the solitary life." [...]
A screen divides the choir of the lay brothers from that of the fathers... The stalls in a Carthusian church have divisions between them, thus partially isolating a monk from his neighbour. A statute of the general chapter of 1340 mentions a lectern in the centre of the church, where the fathers might use a common antiphoner. There is neither pulpit nor loft, and the deacon reads the gospel from a single step or little platform at a lectern adjoining the "north' wall...
(Those interested more specifically in the Carthusian rite of liturgy may wish to refer to our reprint of The Sources and Shape of the Carthusian Liturgy by one of the Carthusian monks of Parkminster.)
In general then, the defining characteristic of Carthusian liturgical architecture is one that is generally characterized by a certain sort of Carthusian sobriety, though one not devoid of beauty and nobility. Now, it should be stated that there are some Carthusian chapels, particularly in countries like Spain, that follow a more ostentatious forms of architecture -- something that Archdale King likewise critically makes note of -- but these are exceptions rather than the general trend and direction set out and followed by the Carthusian order.
To my mind, Carthusian monasteries are one of the most appealing forms of monastic architecture within the Church, and their chapels with their chancel screens, crucifixes, candelabra magna and beautiful woodwork, are certainly part of this appeal. As I often say though, a picture is worth a thousand words, so rather than merely waxing poetic about it, I'd like to share with our readers a few examples of this noble architectural tradition for your own knowledge and enjoyment. I hope you will enjoy seeing them as much as I do.
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| Detail of the chancel screen doors and rood group |
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| The altar in the chapter house |
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| The high altar |
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| The chancel screen |
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| The monastic choir |
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| The chapter house and altar |
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| Chapel of Parkminster |
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| The choir and modified altar |
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| Detail of the chancel screen |
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| (The former altar and sanctuary with its candelabra magna) |
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| Chapter house and altar |
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