Apocalpyse: The Great East Window of York Minster is a new book written by Sarah Brown as she oversees the restoration of the ‘Sistine Chapel of stained glass’ at York Minster.
Sarah is Director of The York Glaziers Trust (YGT) and also course director of the University’s MA in Stained Glass Conservation and Heritage Management. Apocalypse details how art historians at the University and stained glass conservators at YGT have worked with architects, masons, project managers and fundraisers since 2005 to plan, fund and execute one of Europe’s largest and most complex conservation projects.
The book also reproduces panels from the window in full colour and in close detail, alongside an explanation of the story behind the incredible artwork, as well as describing the circumstances of its creation.
Sarah said: “The project offers an unrivalled opportunity to examine the panels up close at eye level in the glazier’s workshop, revealing details about the astonishing skill and artistry of John Thornton who created the window, and his team who remain anonymous and unnumbered. Above all, the book is a tribute to Thornton and his unsung collaborators.”
The restoration is part of the five-year York Minster Revealed project, which is due for completion in 2016.
Medieval Studies at York 