Book Review: A Medieval Cabinet of Curiosities, by Lorris Chevalier

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This book is a journey into the intellectual and material culture of the Middle Ages, viewed through the examination of fifty carefully selected items in the ‘cabinet of curiosities’.

I enjoyed not having any idea what would come next, as the items range from a tiny golden bee to the iron gates of Notre Dame Cathedral. I particularly liked the sepia watercolour illustrations by François Carpentier, which work well in this context.

King Henry VIII's 'Helmet', by François Carpentier

Lorris Chevalier uses each item to explore how medieval people sought to understand and categorise their world, blurring the lines between philosophy, theology, and proposes his medieval ‘cabinet’ as a conceptual space.

A Medieval Cabinet of Curiosities offers a fresh perspective on the Middle Ages which challenges traditional interpretation of museums and collecting, revealing the vibrant intellectual curiosity that characterized the period. This book is perfect for ‘dipping in’ when reading time is limited – and I can guarantee you’ll discover something intriguing and thought provoking. 

Tony Riches

(I would like to than Amberley Books for providing a review copy)

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About the Author

Dr Lorris Chevalier is a curator, historian, international conference speaker and historical advisor for films. He is a specialist in Medieval mentalities, Crusade history, chivalric ethic and liturgy. Working in Hollywood since 2019, he is mainly known for being the advisor on The Last Duel (2021) and Napoleon (2023).