The Symbols of the Four Evangelists and Symbols of Saints

Photo © Sally Davies larger image

1990 Five-light window with symbols of the four evangelists in the upper part of the main lights and a butterfly in the central light. Lower part of the main lights from left to right: hands releasing a bird, crossed keys with an upside-down cross, flowers and abstract shapes, a short sword and a scroll, mitre and dove. Shapes in the tracery lights suggestive of flames of fire. technique: stained glass firm/studio: Glantawe Studios artist: Tim Lewis Church of All Saints, Rhiwbina, Cardiff west window The unifying theme of the window is the role of evangelist, preacher and teacher, and was based on an idea by the donor, Miss Gwyneth M. Reyland, a retired art teacher. It was dedicated in February 1990. The central light illustrates the calling of the disciples (fish and net) and the creation of life and beauty (flowers), above is a butterfly, symbolic of the resurrection. The four lower panels beneath the symbols of the four evangelists represent saints: Francis releasing a dove; the apostle Peter, symbolised by the keys and upside-down cross on which he was crucified; the sword and scroll represent Paul; and the lower right-hand light represents the mitre of David, whose symbol is a dove. Flames of fire in the tracery lights represent the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. With thanks to Sally Davies and Janet Lewis for information about the window.  (ObjectID=5296 ImageID=10416) Original File Name=CIMG0009.JPG

This artwork is indexed under the following main subject(s):
for other works containing these subjects please click on the links.

• insects: butterfly 
• the four symbols of the evangelists, 'the apocalyptic beasts'  [Revelation 4:6-8]

Photo © Sally Davies