Newcastle Cathedral window celebrates everyday compassion
The Chemist’s Window, dating from 1866, is among 12 finalists in a nationwide search for England’s favourite cathedral window
A stained glass window celebrating quiet acts of kindness in the heart of Newcastle has been shortlisted in a national search for England’s favourite cathedral window.
The Chemist’s Window, housed in Newcastle Cathedral, is one of 12 finalists in a campaign run by the Association of English Cathedrals to highlight the country’s most loved examples of cathedral glass.
Inspired by Divine Light: The Stained Glass of England’s Cathedrals by Janet Gough OBE, the competition was drawn from the Association’s most-liked social media posts, with public voting open until Monday February 2, the Feast of Candlemas.
Dating from 1866, the window commemorates Joseph Garnet, a Newcastle chemist and member of the cathedral congregation when it was known as St Nicholas’ Church. Garnet ran a shop nearby and was known locally for his understated generosity. Only after his death in 1861 did the full extent of his charitable work become known, prompting friends to raise funds for a memorial window in his honour.
The window depicts Garnet performing acts of compassion for the poor, reflecting a life of humility, faith and service.
The Dean of Newcastle, the Very Reverend Lee Batson, said: “Unlike some grander windows in the competition, the Chemist’s Window tells the story of an ordinary person walking and working alongside those in need – the poor, hungry and imprisoned. It is comparatively modest in appearance but carries a powerful message about faith lived quietly through kindness and generosity.”
Created in the studio of Newcastle artist William Wailes, one of Victorian England’s most prolific stained-glass makers, the window was damaged during enemy action in 1941 and placed in storage. It was reinstated in 1980 with support from the Pharmaceutical Society.
Other stained glass in the running include those found in Westminster Abbey, St George’s Chapel, York Minster and cathedrals in Worcester, St Alban’s and Sheffield.
Janet Gough OBE said: “The stained glass of England’s cathedrals forms a single national collection of remarkable range and artistry… The public’s 12 favourites reflect 900 years of cathedral glass, from masterpieces to lesser-known gems.”
To cast a vote before February 2, visit the website.