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Clappers, undated

 Sub-Series — Multiple Containers

Scope and Contents

One large wooden clapper for use in a monastery.

Dates

  • Creation: undated

Creator

Language of Materials

From the Collection:

This collection is mostly in English, with some materials in French, German, Italian, Latin, Lithuanian, Polish, Slovenian, and Spanish.

Access Note

Collection is open for research.

Definition and use

A clapper, also called a crotalus, is a wooden device composed of a flat length of wood aligned to hit a corrugated wheel to create a loud noise. During the Sacred Triduum (the period marking the three days before Jesus’s execution), bells are not used; instead, other noise-making devices, such as clappers, are used to rouse congregants. This practice is often localized and not universally observed.

Sources:

"Crotalus (instrument)," Wikipedia, October 21, 2024. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crotalus_(instrument).

Filz, Gretchen. “Everything You Need To Know About the Sacred Triduum.” The Catholic Company, April 4, 2017. https://www.catholiccompany.com/magazine/the-easter-triduum-what-is-it-6028.

Full Extent

1 Items

Full Extent

3 Linear Feet (2 containers)

Repository Details

Part of the John J. Burns Library Repository

Contact:
John J. Burns Library
Boston College
140 Commonwealth Avenue
Chestnut Hill MA 02467 USA
617-552-4861