This stained glass window, designed by Henry Holiday and made by James Powell & Sons (Whitefriars Glass) in 1891, depicts Saint Joseph and Saint James the Less. It forms part of the distinguished series of Powell windows in Salisbury Cathedral, in which pairs of saints are presented as complementary examples of faith, vocation, and devotion.

On the left, Saint Joseph, the husband of Mary and guardian of the Christ Child, is portrayed as a figure of quiet strength and purity. His thoughtful expression and dignified bearing convey the sanctity of humble service and obedience to divine will. The soft modelling of his face and the luminous white and gold of his robes reflect Holiday’s characteristic balance of naturalism and ideal grace.

On the right, Saint James the Less, one of the Twelve Apostles and first leader of the Jerusalem Church, stands in calm composure, his gaze steady and contemplative. His simple robes and serene countenance evoke the steadfast devotion of one who bore witness through faith and endurance.

The paired figures are unified by harmonious colour and architectural framing, set against alternating blue and red grounds that suggest heavenly wisdom and sacrificial love. Together, Saint Joseph and Saint James embody complementary virtues: the sanctity of daily labor and the perseverance of apostolic faith. Executed with Henry Holiday’s refined draughtsmanship and Powell & Sons’ superb craftsmanship, the window exemplifies the spiritual poise and aesthetic harmony of late Victorian ecclesiastical art.