Discovering Kempe in Warwickshire Churches
16.9.08
Charles Eamer Kempe (1837 - 1907) was one of the most important and influential decorators of the later nineteenth and early twentieth century. The Kempe Studio was active in producing fine quality stained glass from the late 1860s until the Studio closed in 1934. They specialised in glass dinstinctive for its richness of colour, harmony of design, quality of drawing - especially of faces and angels - and faithful following of the traditions of medieval glass making. Kempe's legacy can be seen in over 5,000 churches and cathedrals worldwide and in Warwickshire we have our own share.
Kempe's work is distinguished by his signature. Early works include a wheatsheaf motif in the lower left hand corner and later output shows the same motif with a super-imposed tower.
His work is almost always signed but one example in our Diocese, in Clifton on Dunsmore, the Muntz window, is without a signature.
The following list will help you to explore Kempe in our Warwickshire churches. The churches marked with a * are open during daylight hours. Some have limited opening and this is noted. Others are only accessible by appointment.
Ansty, St James
- Aston Cantlow, St John the Baptist (Daytime Easter to end of October)
Atherstone, St Mary (Open Tues and Fri 10am - 12 noon)
Binton, St Peter - The Scott Memorial Window
Bourton on Dunsmore, St Peter
Bubbenhall, St Giles
Caldecote, St Theobold and Chad
- Charlecote, St Leonard
Church Lawford, St Peter
Churchover, Holy Trinity
Claverdon, St Michael
Clifton on Dunsmore, St Mary
Coventry , Holy Trinity
Coventry, St John the Baptist (Mon- Fri 10am - 1pm + Sat noon)
Kinwarton, St Mary
Ladbroke, All Saints
Lillington, St Mary Magdalene
Meriden, St Lawrence
- Leamington Spa St Marks (Mon - Fri 10 - 12, 2 - 5pm)
Rowington, St Lawrence
Stockton, St Michael (Open during term time Mon - Fri)
Stratford upon Avon, Holy Trinity
Tredington, St Gregory
Warwick, St Mary
Weddington, St James
- Wellesbourne, St Peter