The Outer Court
You are standing in what was the outer court of the abbey, where its agricultural and industrial building were located. These would have included workshops, forges, barns, stables and storerooms. Many of the inhabitants of Battle town, including children, found employment here.
The cellarer, an important monk in charge of the community's food and drink, bought supplies for the abbey in the outer court.The cellarer's account for 1278-79 record the purchase of a chain for the abbot's monkey. In the Middle Ages, monkeys were sometimes kept as pets by people of high status.
The sculpted monkey and play equipment were inspired by original documents from the abbey and activities known to have taken place in the outer court.
( photo caption )
- Two apes, one with a collar and chain, the other with a belt. Detail from Gentile Daniel Fabriano, Adoration of the Magi, 1423.
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