A close look at a stained glass window on a recent visit to St-Martin-cum-Gregory in Micklegate revealed this white boar. This motif was the badge of Richard III King of England from1483-85, who was also known as Richard of York. Killed at the Battle of Bosworth in 1485 Richard III was the last English king to die in battle. Always popular in York (he halved the cities taxes during his reign) it is no surprise to find his badge hidden away in a quiet corner.
Recent excavations in a car park in Leicester claim to have discovered Richard's remains (his body was disposed of secretly after the battle) and a debate is raging over where, if it proves to be Richard, he should be buried. Come back tomorrow to hear a twist in the tale!
This is the Lady Chapel East Window from All Saints Church North Street. It is the earliest window in the Church dating from around 1330. It used to be above the high altar and told the story in pictures, for many who could not read, of the life of Jesus, with the coronation of Mary as the Queen of Heaven thrown in for good measure. Hard to believe it is nearly 700 years old.
Taking part in ABC Wednesday
This stained glass window is in a building down a ginnel a stones throw from the Minster glaziers workshops. I wonder if it was made by one of the glaziers in their spare time? The red lion is standing in front of a representation of one of the Bars or gateways in the city walls. I think it is most likely Monk Bar, and one day if I have the patience to decipher the 'back to front' writing or I get to go inside this building I might find out what it is all about!
All Saints' Church North Street is renown for the quality of its stained glass windows including some stunning 14th century and 15th century panels. This tiny example can be found in the 15th century window known as the Nine Orders of Angels.
The window consists of 9 panels in total each panel depicting a different angelic form, Seraphim, Cherubim, Archangels etc. This panel depicts 'ordinary' Angels but what makes it especially interesting is that it also shows, in the centre of the group between the two red-robed figures, one of the 15th century figures wearing spectacles. One of the earliest instances of these being worn and depicted in glass.
This is a closer view of the window in St Helen's church seen in yesterdays post. The window as you see it here is a composite from glass originally placed in the chancel. The four main figures are Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.
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