John Roddam Spencer Stanhope, “Angels Praising God on Timbrel and Trumpet” oil on wood, 1873-1874, c.135cm x c.185cm, Marlborough College Chapel. This year marks 150 years since Marlborough commissioned the prominent Pre-Raphaelite artist John Roddam Spencer Stanhope to carry out work for the College Chapel. Between 1873 and 1874, Stanhope painted panels to be displayed on each side of the old Chapel’s high altar. In keeping with the Chapel’s dedication to St Michael and All Angels, the panels show a heavenly host playing instruments and singing In Conspectu Angelorum, the medieval antiphon traditionally sung on the Feast of St Michael. The panels were moved to their current position over the gallery at the West End of the new Chapel in 1886.
Wishing you a Peaceful Christmas
Louise Moelwyn-Hughes The Master, Marlborough College