Koorhek in de Sint-Martinusbasiliek in Halle, België before 1887

This is an image of the choir screen in the Basilica of Saint Martin in Halle, Belgium, made by an anonymous artist. Choir screens played a crucial role in shaping the worship experience in churches. They physically separated the clergy and choir from the congregation, embodying a hierarchy that reflected societal structures of power and gender. The screen limits access, reinforcing divisions and defining who could participate fully in religious rituals. What was kept from view was deemed sacred and exclusive. The imposing structure acted as a filter, controlling the flow of information and access to the divine. While it emphasized the clergy's elevated status, it also invited contemplation, encouraging a sense of mystery among the laity. The craftsmanship, often intricate and ornate, was designed to inspire awe and reverence. Consider the emotional impact of such barriers and the sense of inclusion or exclusion they might have evoked. These screens weren't simply architectural features; they were active participants in the unfolding drama of religious life.