THE TEMPTATION OF ST FRANCIS

Brief description: Stained glass panel in a frame depicting the temptation of Saint Francis. Designed and made by Moira Forsyth in about 1930.

The temptation of St Francis is brought to life in this dynamic window by Moira Forsyth (1905-1991). Saint Francis stands in an awkward posture, head bent severely to one side. He is wearing his cream monk habit with grey hood and has a bible tucked under his left arm. He is surrounded by impish creatures, who can be seen little winged devils are at his head, knee and feet. There is an empty tomb behind him, and his is tall figure is rather emaciated. St Francis of Assisi was born c.1181 and is the patron saint of animals. Forsyth, is often described as one of England's most notable stained glass artists. She received many prestigious commissions for Cathedrals, schools and parish churches across the UK. She spent much of her working life at The Glass House studio in Fulham in Greater London alongside artists such as Wilhelmina Geddes, Mary Lowndes and Alfred J. Drury. This panel was made at the Royal College of Art when Forsyth was still a student and demonstrates her playfulness.

Object type: stained glass panel

Number of objects: 1

Production date: circa 1930

Production period: 20th century, early

Designer: Moira Forsyth (1905 - 1991)

Manufacturer: Forsyth, Moira 1905=1991

Dimensions: Height: 1620 mm, Width: 700 mm

Acquisition: loan 21.3.1993

Acquisition source: C. & T. Benyon

This item is not currently on display and can only be viewed by prior arrangement

Accession number: ELYGM:L1993.3