Representations of Disabled People in York’s Medieval Stained Glass Windows

A talk by Naoki Matsumoto as part of York Disability Week From York Minster to St Martin le Grand to All Saints North Street, there are many churches which include stained glass windows with representations of disabled people. Many of the depictions found in York show healing miracles where a saint “heals”a person with a disability, while others show charity narratives where people with disabilities are recipients of alms. Through these representations, this talk seeks to cast a light on medieval perceptions of disabilities which are not the same as those of today. The particularity of the depictions in glass also inform the glazier’s and donor’s use of the bodies of people with disabilities, which in certain contexts are used to magnify a saint’s healing powers, or, in other contexts, are used as the physical embodiment of York’s civic community. These representations can also give us a glimpse into the agency and self-formed communities of people with disabilities. Our speaker, Naoki Matsumoto graduated with an MA in Medieval Studies at the university of York and is now pursuing a PhD at the university of Poitiers in France, on the topic of the representation of people with disabilities in medieval stained glass. We expect the talk to last approximately 45 minutes with time afterwards for questions and to explore the church. Attendance is free and booking is not required. Donations to cover our costs are very welcome and can be made by cash and card within the church. Accessibility Most of the church is wheelchair accessible except for the chancel, high altar, and anchorhold (open for special events only) though some floors are uneven due to the historic nature of the building. A toilet is available during events. Seating is mostly on pews - please feel free to bring a cushion or blanket if this will make you more comfortable. The church can become chilly in cold weather so please do dress accordingly.