Matthew Paris

Born around 1200 (possibly at Hildersham, Cambridgeshire) - died 1259 at St. Albans

The interest in Matthew Paris relates to the medieval wall painting (mural/fresco) in St. Mary's Belchamp Walter.

Part of what the Wikipedia page said:

Matthew Paris was a was an English Benedictine monk, chronicler, artist in illuminated manuscripts and cartographer, based at St Albans Abbey.

The map below is probably the most interesting to me. It shows an image of Britain that somewhat explains the history of the UK. The Medieval period is not easily understood, at least by me!, the map shows a perception of what Britain "looked" like in the 1200's.

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The Fresco in St. Mary Belchamp Walter

The description for the mural/fresco contain s the statement "The painting is reminiscent of that at Great Canfield in Essex, which is attributed to Matthew Paris, and could well be by the same hand.". This is not really clear, the information for the fresco in St. Mary Great Canfield clearly states that the artist is unknown.

"The figure at the bottom right of the painting is thought to be the Patron worshipping the Virgin with his beads. is more reminiscent of the self-portrait of Matthew Paris from the original manuscript of his Historia Anglorum (London, British Library, MS Royal 14.C.VII, folio 6r.

Matthew Paris was cited the inspiration for the mural (fresco) of St. Mary in the Parish Church of Belchamp Walter.

The other murals in the Church are painted around the opening of the former Chantry Chapel of Sir John Botetourt on the North wall. These murals are thought to have been created by a number of artists and are contemporary with the building of the Chapel. Sir John died in 1325 and I have seen dates of 1330 for the murals. This would be a little late for Matthew Paris to have been associated with them but would tend to indicate that they were painted on the North wall around the entrance of the exisiting Chantry.

Medieval Chronicler

Matthew Paris is credited with the depiction of both Henry I and Henry II

Paris is one of the most engaging of medieval chroniclers. His accounts are detailed and well informed, with lively descriptions of people involved and analysis of the causes and significance of the events recorded. Matthew’s connections made him a well-placed observer of contemporary affairs. He was on personal terms both with the king, Henry III, and his influential brother, Richard, Earl of Cornwall. At their courts he must have gained many insights into domestic and foreign politics. "

Matthew Paris

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