Saints George, Peter, and Margaret - Market Bosworth Leicetershire
Primary tabs
This stained glass window by Charles Eamer Kempe,1 at St Peter's Market Bosworth Leicestershire, is an example of late Victorian Gothic Revival art, depicting Saints George, Peter, and Margaret in three tall, richly colored panels. Each saint stands beneath an elaborate architectural canopy, rendered in delicate tracery and glowing jewel tones that catch and filter the light with remarkable depth.
On the left, Saint George appears as a young knight in full armor, the red cross of his shield identifying him as England’s patron saint. He holds a lance and stands confidently, the deep blue background emphasizing both his bravery and divine calling. In the center, Saint Peter, older and bearded, wears robes of deep blue and gold. He holds two large keys—the symbol of his authority as gatekeeper of Heaven, and stands before a crimson backdrop, signifying faith and sacrifice. On the right, Saint Margaret of Antioch is shown crowned and serene, holding a palm of martyrdom and a cross-topped staff. At her feet lies a dragon, the emblem of her triumph over evil, while the cool blue behind her speaks of purity and steadfast faith.
Above the saints are heraldic shields: one bearing Saint George’s cross, another showing the crossed keys of Saint Peter, and a third likely representing the donor or the church itself. Below, a dedication inscription commemorates the gift of the window “to the glory of God” and in memory of its benefactors.
Kempe’s artistry is evident in every detail, the balanced composition, the luminous use of color, and the golden highlights created through his distinctive use of yellow stain. The window combines elegance and reverence, transforming light into devotion and craftsmanship into an enduring act of worship.
