Restoring Angels
The Burne-Jones Window
The Burne-Jones window, located in the South Quire Aisle, is a stained-glass window of great historical and artistic significance. It dates back to 1879 and features designs by the eminent Pre-Raphaelite artists William Morris and Edward Burne-Jones.
However, the ravages of time, water ingress, and deterioration of painted details led to the urgent need for restoration. The 6.5-metre-high window was removed in February 2024 for inspection and conservation in the Cathedral’s glazing workshop. In April 2026 it was returned to its place above the south Quire Aisle in the Cathedral.
Read the full story here.
About the Burne-Jones Window
Commissioned to commemorate Captain George Eyre Townsend RA, the window was intended to depict the Order of Angels. The two windows at Salisbury Cathedral illustrate ‘Angeli Ministrantes’ and ‘Angeli Laudantes’ (Ministering and Praising Angels). Interestingly, similar designs were used not only for stained glass but also for tapestries and other artworks, showcasing the versatility of Burne-Jones’ creations.
Why Restoration was Necessary
Years of exposure to the elements, particularly condensation, took a toll on the Burne-Jones Window. The painted details, especially the figurative elements of the window, had significantly deteriorated. The lead work showed signs of cracking, and the unique glazing exacerbated the challenges.
The Cathedral’s Glazing Department
The restoration of the Burne-Jones Window was undertaken by Salisbury Cathedral’s skilled glazing department. Comprising experts in stained glass conservation, the team operates in an on-site glazing workshop where they undertake a range of tasks, from the conservation of medieval to contemporary stained glass.
Beyond the Cathedral, they extend their skills to other churches and private residences. Their proficiency in stained glass conservation includes conservation cleaning, isothermal glazing, environmental monitoring, glass painting, re-leading, producing lead light glazing and preparing condition reports.
Heading the team is Sam Kelly, the Head Glazier, whose impressive depth of knowledge about Salisbury Cathedral’s glasswork stems from apprenticing at the Cathedral and refining his craft over forty years. Sam holds an accreditation from ICON and is an associate member of the British Society of Master Glass painters. His expertise plays a crucial role in overseeing the care and conservation of the Cathedral’s stained glass windows.
How the Window Was Restored
Restoring the Burne-Jones Window was a meticulous process. First, a detailed cleaning and documentation phase captured its true condition. Temporary measures addressed water ingress for stability during restoration and careful lead work restoration prevented further deterioration. Original chalk drawings were used to guide the delicate enhancement of missing painted details. Our glazing team introduced protective glazing and oak frames to shield the window against future deterioration. The team will ensure the long-term preservation of the window through regular checks so that this historical masterpiece remains a testament to its original makers for generations.
This conservation project was kindly supported by:
St Andrew’s Conservation Trust
The Arts Society Salisbury
Benefact Trust
The Dulverton Trust
Idlewild Trust
Pilgrim Trust
Society of Antiquaries of London
Stuart Heath Charitable Settlement
