New nature inspired stained glass window
A remarkable new stained-glass window is set to take its place at York’s historic Merchant Adventurers’ Hall, bringing together royal history, British heritage, and Yorkshire pride in a beautifully crafted work of art.
Designed to commemorate the Coronation of King Charles III while also honouring the extraordinary reign of Queen Elizabeth II, the striking new window tells a story that bridges past and present. Serving as both a tribute and a celebration, the piece captures a significant moment in the nation’s history and reflects the continuity of the Crown through two historic reigns.
Beyond its royal connections, the design showcases the rich diversity of Britain’s natural world. Intricate stained-glass details celebrate native flora and fauna, weaving together elements that reflect the beauty and character of the British landscape. Visitors with a keen eye will also discover a number of distinctly Yorkshire touches incorporated into the artwork, including a tribute to York’s famous Tansy Beetle, a rare and much-loved local species.
The window has been brought to life by the York Glaziers Trust, renowned for their expertise in traditional stained-glass conservation and creation, the team has meticulously crafted each element of the design, ensuring a work of exceptional quality and lasting significance. Dr Marie Groll, Director of York Glaziers Trust: “The York Glaziers Trust has been privileged to work with colleagues at the Merchant Adventurers Hall on this new window, which is a celebration of nature and of the monarchy. Our in-house stained glass designer Anna Milsom has used as her inspiration the flora and fauna found in the gardens surrounding the Hall, bringing the outside in. We hope there is much hidden in the window to delight visitors to the Hall.”
The Governor of the Merchant Adventurers’ Hall, Professor Sarah Brown, is delighted with this addition during her year of office: “The artistry and craft of the stained-glass artist has changed little since the Hall was built in the middle of the fourteenth century. Stained glass remains at the heart of the heritage and culture of the city of York and it is a very fitting medium in which to pay tribute to the late Queen and the accession of His Majesty the King in a building which remains central to the celebration and promotion of business, enterprise and creative entrepreneurship. This sensitive evocation of the garden in which the Hall sits will bring pleasure and delight to our members and our visitors alike.”The window will provide a lasting legacy within the Hall, enriching the historic building while commemorating a defining chapter in modern British history. Combining royal symbolism, natural heritage and local identity, it promises to be a captivating addition to one of York’s most treasured landmarks.
Below are a selection of photographs showing the window during its creation by Anna Milsom (courtesy of York Glaziers Trust) its installation and now that it is in situ at the Hall.
