Panel discussion….Reema.Gehi
A newly introduced heritage walk showcases the intricate and detailed stained glass panels in two of the city’s landmark sites of worship
A newly introduced heritage walk showcases the intricate and detailed stained glass panels in two of the city’s landmark sites of worship
This evening, at The Times of India Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, conservation architect Sanaeya Vandrewala will be taking a bunch of enthusiasts to St Thomas Cathedral (behind the Horniman Circle Gardens) and the nearby Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue (Dr VB Gandhi Marg). But the walk-thetalk, which will commence at St Thomas, won’t dwell on the history behind the places of worship, but will decipher their stained glass panels. This tour is part of the series of heritage walks organised by conservation architect Kruti Garg. Here’s what you can expect to see
As you walk towards the apse; all the works you’ll see here are created by Victorian stained glass designer Charles Kempe, who has also painted panels at the Cathedral of Winchester, York and Gloucester. Apart from painting biblical figures, artists used to create geometrical and floral patterns. This is just one example of that, where Kempe has created flowerypatterned panes using vivid colours.
There is no mention of the stained glass artist at the Keneseth Eliyahoo Synagogue. But it was done in 1884. The stained glass panel here is all floral and geometric patterns. One does not see any figures or human images here.
This is a depiction of God as a fatherly figure. Here, he is seen holding a globe in his hand, which signifies his creation. The artist has used a lot of Gothic features in the painting. The panel, created sometime in the 1800s, is flanked by illustrations of two angels.
On the right hand corner at the entrance of the St Thomas Cathedral, you’ll find a large stained glass panel. Painted by artist Henry Holiday, this is a lifelike depiction of St Thomas (one of the twelve apostles of Christ) at the centre, alongside two archangels — Gabriel and Michael.
The scene represented here is after resurrection. St Thomas couldn’t believe the wonder and wanted to touch Christ to confirm the miracle. Kempe has painted an angel with the English Coat of Arms.
This is a stained glass painting by Kempe, which is a depiction of the crucifixion of Christ. Below, there’s Mother Mary with Baby Jesus.
Right next to it, Kempe has painted the resurrection of Christ on Easter, below that is an angel holding the English Coat of Arms, since the work was commissioned when the British ruled the city.