The Great Hall

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THE GREAT HALL

This splendid chamber (108 feet long by 40 feet wide and 60 feet high) was used for banquets, receptions, masques and balls, and other functions.

It has been repaired a number of times, the gorgeous hammer beam roof, like that of Westminster Hall, having suffered badly from the ravages of the death-watch beetle.

With its finely carved minstrel's gallery and screens, stained-glass windows, and magnificent tapestries, the hall presents a picture of singular richness and beauty.

The glass is modern, that in the west window relates to Henry VIII and his wives and children, whose badges are a feature whilst the east window illustrates the genealogy of the royals.

In the oriel to the right of the dais the arms of Wolsey and of his several dioceses appear; and the side windows contain alternately the badges and devices of Henry VIII and the pedigree of his wives.

The Brussels tapestries on the side walls, The history of Abraham, date from the early 16th Century and are one of the finest sets of their style and kind in existence.

The tapestries under the gallery represent the Triumph of Fate and the Story of Hercules.

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