Set in Stone: Exploring Britain's Cathedrals with Master Stonemason Tom Maude

"Where can you reach out and literally touch [history] with your own hands? Where can you see it in all its naked and organic glory right in front of you?" It's a bit of an understatement to say that stonemason Tom Maude is passionately interested in medieval architecture, but while his enthusiasm for the topic may strike some as too eccentric, most will enjoy learning from such an inspired figure. Beginning with a discussion of Norman Romanesque architecture at Lindisfarne (where the camera pans the priory ruins to rest on a single round arch, whole and perfect almost a thousand years after it was crafted), Set in Stone goes on to examine the English cathedrals of Durham, Wells, Exeter, and Gloucester (with examples of the architectural development from the Norman style up to the breathtaking Perpendicular Gothic of the 15th century), and also visits a modern quarry and sculpture studio. Despite the labor-saving, diamond-tipped masonry blades and pneumatic chisels used today, the mason's art, craft and science largely remain as they have for centuries. The discussion of the geometry and physics of these structures, as well as their aesthetic value, make this gorgeously filmed (and Discovery Channel aired) production, featuring lovely medieval chant in the background and an irrepressible (and knowledgeable) host, a first-rate choice for both school and public library collections. In fact, travelers visiting the English countryside will really appreciate this for giving them a clue about what they'll be seeing. Highly recommended. Editor's Choice. Aud: J, H, C, P. (R. Reagan)