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The lay-brothers' clothing (2/2) |
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The lay-brothers did not receive the monastic tonsure and in manuscripts and sculptures they are distinguished by their beards and fringes. Their clothing too is different: unlike the monks they do not wear sleeved cowls but are shown in belted tunics with tight sleeves, and cloaks. Surviving legislative texts also describe the lay-brothers’ clothing. Their wardrobe consisted of garments that were suitable for work; they were allowed a cloak, up to four tunics, a hood that covered their shoulders, and footwear. There were some concessions: blacksmiths had black, rounded smocks to protect their garments from sparks; the abbot might grant extra garments to herdsmen, waggoners and shepherds, who worked in harsh weather. Whilst boots were not usually worn by lay-brothers, they were occasionally given a second-hand pair when they visited the abbey for Vigils. It has been suggested that these made less noise than their traditional footwear, and were probably intended to preserve the quiet of the church. Clothing was made from coarse animal skins, and woodland animals such as cat, rabbit and squirrel were forbidden; garments could be lined with a rough material. ‘Unauthorised cloaks’ were confiscated and those who refused to part with them punished – they were denied Communion and took the last place at meals and services.
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