One of the most remarkable examples of 14th century stained glass in Europe can finally be seen again as its medieval creators intended following a meticulous three-year restoration project.
The last pieces of scaffolding are being removed from the Jesse Window at Wells cathedral in Somerset, allowing visitors to fully appreciate its vivid colours and wonderful characterisation.
After surviving the Reformation and the English civil war, the window was in danger because of the effects of condensation. It was causing mould that was in turn attacking the paint and corroding the delicate and vulnerable glass.
Half a million pounds was raised to save the window. Areas of the glass have been sympathetically re-leaded, cleaned carefully and loose paint layers consolidated. A modern layer of protective glazing has been added to the exterior to try to ward off further condensation. Much of the work has been carried out by a local company, Holy Well Glass.
Dating from 1340, the window shows the story of the birth, death and resurrection of Jesus surrounded by his ancestors, all the way back to Jesse, father of King David. There are Jesse Tree windows – so called because they show Jesus’s family tree – in other great churches including Chartres cathedral in France but the Wells version is considered one of the finest in the world.
Legend has it that during the 17th century a soldier who began to climb up to the window to destroy it fell to his death, putting off others who may have been tempted to follow him.
Wells Cathedral is hoping visitors will flock to the cathedral to view the restored masterpiece.
Paul Richards, the cathedral’s administrator, said: “Conserving the window for decades and maybe centuries to come will be one of the main contributions our generation will have made to the history of our cathedral. Completing the conservation project is a fantastic achievement and it is great to see the Jesse Window looking so splendid.”
