The collector’s crusade: curating an inspiring Knights Templar display
From cherished items to a timeless narrative
There is a unique reverence that comes with holding a piece of Knights Templar history in your hands. Whether it’s the satisfying weight of a replica greathelm, the coarse weave of a woollen mantle, or the intricate design on a Templar seal, each item is a portal to the past. It’s a tangible link to the warrior monks who wore these symbols with faith and ferocity. But for many collectors, the journey often pauses there. These cherished artifacts end up on a cluttered bookshelf, in a storage box, or scattered without context around a room.
What if you could transform that collection into something more? What if you could move beyond simply owning items and begin to curate a display? Curation is the art of storytelling. It’s about arranging your pieces in a way that breathes life into them, creating a space that not only showcases your finds but also honors the profound legacy of the Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon.
This guide is your map for that crusade. We will explore how to design and build a Knights Templar display that is historically respectful, visually stunning, and deeply personal. It’s time to take those exquisite Templar finds out of the dark and build a shrine to the legend in every stitch.
The philosophy of a Templar display: finding your story
Before you mount a single sword or drape a single tunic, the most crucial step is to define the story you want to tell. A random assortment of items, no matter how valuable, lacks impact. A focused, thematic collection, however, can transport the viewer. Ask yourself: what aspect of the Templar Order fascinates you the most?
Defining your narrative
Your display’s theme will guide every choice you make, from the items you feature to the lighting you use. Consider these potential narratives:
- The warrior monk: This theme focuses on the military aspect of the Order. The central pieces would be armor, a sword, a shield, and perhaps a chainmail coif. The atmosphere should feel robust and ready, like an arming chamber in Acre.
- The spiritual devotee: Here, the focus is on the Templars’ monastic life. A white mantle, a simple wooden cross, replica prayer beads, and perhaps a replica of the Latin Rule would be central. The mood should be contemplative and serene.
- The historical archivist: This display is for the history buff. It could feature replica coins from different periods, maps of the Holy Land, wax seals, and facsimiles of important documents like the Chinon Parchment. It’s a scholarly, museum-like approach.
- The modern legacy: Perhaps your interest lies in the enduring mythos of the Templars. This display could blend historical replicas with modern interpretations, Masonic symbols, or books and art inspired by the Order.
The power of focus
One of the biggest mistakes collectors make is trying to display everything at once. A crowded shelf creates noise, where each item fights for attention and none truly shines. Embrace the principle of “less is more.” Choose a few of your most powerful pieces to be the focal points and use smaller items as supporting accents. You can always rotate your collection seasonally or as you acquire new finds, keeping your display fresh and dynamic.
Choosing your sacred space: location, location, location
Where you build your display is just as important as what’s in it. The right location provides the proper stage for your collection to perform. Think about foot traffic, lighting, and the existing decor of the room.
The dedicated corner or study
For the serious collector, a dedicated space is the ultimate goal. A corner in a home office, library, or den can be transformed into a Templar sanctuary. This allows you to control the environment completely, from the wall color to the lighting, creating a fully immersive experience without clashing with your home’s primary decor.
The statement wall
If a full corner isn’t an option, a single wall can be incredibly effective. Vertical space is perfect for creating a dramatic focal point. This is ideal for hanging a Templar banner (the Beauceant), a shield, or crossed swords. You can frame the larger items with smaller, wall-mounted shadow boxes containing coins or medals.
The cabinet of curiosities
A glass display case or curio cabinet is a classic solution for a reason. It protects your valuable items from dust and accidental bumps while allowing for 360-degree viewing. This is the perfect choice for smaller, more delicate artifacts like replica rings, seals, manuscripts, and coins. You can arrange them on different levels and use small stands to create a visually interesting layout.
The cornerstones of your collection: displaying the icons
Now we get to the heart of the matter: the items themselves. Each type of Templar artifact requires a different approach to display it safely and effectively, ensuring it looks its best while being preserved for years to come.
The uniform: mantle, tunic, and coif
The iconic white mantle with its red cross is often the centerpiece of a Templar collection. Textiles, however, are fragile.
- Mannequins: A full or partial mannequin is the best way to give a tunic and mantle a lifelike form. It shows how the fabric drapes and hangs, giving a sense of the person who would have worn it. Ensure the mannequin is clean and made of a stable material.
- Wall hanging: For a flatter display, a mantle or banner can be hung from a decorative rod, much like a tapestry. To avoid stressing the fabric, have a sleeve of sturdy, acid-free fabric sewn onto the back through which you can slide the rod. Never use nails or staples directly on the garment.
- Preservation: Keep all textiles out of direct sunlight, which will cause the colors to fade and the fibers to weaken. Dust them gently with a soft brush periodically.
The armor and weaponry: helm, sword, and shield
These pieces bring the “warrior” to the “warrior monk.” Their steely presence demands a sturdy and secure display.
- Helmets: A greathelm or sugarloaf helm should be displayed on a dedicated stand. You can find simple black metal stands or more ornate wooden ones. Placing it on a surface covered with a piece of dark cloth can add contrast and a touch of class.
- Swords: A Templar sword can be displayed in several ways. Wall-mounted vertical or horizontal brackets are popular and save space. For a more commanding presence, a floor or table stand allows the sword to be the focal point. Safety is paramount. Ensure any wall mounts are securely fastened into a stud, not just drywall.
- Shields: A kite or heater shield makes a fantastic centerpiece for a wall display. Heavy-duty picture-hanging hardware or specialized shield mounts (often a leather strap and a strong hook) are essential.
The sacred texts and artifacts: seals, coins, and manuscripts
These small treasures tell big stories, but they can get lost in a large display. They require a more intimate presentation.
- Shadow boxes: This is the ideal solution. A shadow box allows you to group related items—a coin, a seal, and a small map, for instance—and mount them against a textured background like linen or velvet.
- Display cases and domes: A single, particularly fine replica coin or ring can be elevated by placing it in a small acrylic box or under a glass dome. This magnifies its importance and protects it.
- Framing: Replica parchments or manuscript pages should be professionally framed using archival, acid-free materials and UV-protective glass to prevent yellowing and fading.
Creating atmosphere and context
The final layer of a great display goes beyond the objects themselves. It’s about creating an environment that enhances the story. This is how you add the “wow” factor.
The power of lighting
Lighting can make or break your display. Avoid harsh, direct overhead lights. Instead, use multiple, softer sources. A well-placed spotlight (a small, adjustable LED is perfect) can be aimed to catch the curve of a helmet or the edge of a sword, creating dramatic shadows and highlights. For a cabinet, consider installing internal LED strips with a warm color temperature to create a soft, inviting glow.
Textures and backdrops
Think about what is behind your collection. A plain white wall can feel sterile. Consider painting the wall a deep, historic color like charcoal grey, burgundy, or navy. You could also apply a textured wallpaper that mimics old stone or plaster. Draping a piece of rough-spun burlap or rich velvet behind a set of items can add depth and a tactile quality.
The importance of placards
Take a cue from museums and add small, discreet labels for your key pieces. This small detail adds immense value and transforms your collection into an educational experience for guests. A simple placard might read:
Templar Greathelm
c. 13th Century Style
Iconic enclosed helmet providing full-face protection, a symbol of the Crusader knight.
This provides context and shows the depth of your knowledge and passion.
Your display is a tribute
Curating your Knights Templar collection is more than just organizing your possessions. It is an act of preservation and of storytelling. It’s a way to build a personal connection to a history that continues to captivate the world. By thoughtfully selecting a narrative, preparing your space, and carefully arranging your items with proper lighting and context, you create more than a display—you create a tribute.
Your collection tells the story of faith, of conflict, of finance, and of a legend that has echoed for nearly a thousand years. Let your display be a worthy testament to that legend. Start with one piece, one story, and build from there. Non nobis, Domine, non nobis, sed Nomini tuo da gloriam.