Jane Gray (b.1931)

Design for Stained Glass Panel in a Private House (1978)

Watercolour

10 x 8 cm

Signed and dated verso.

This design is for a window commemorating Arthur Henry Edmond Esq., of Ranelagh, 50 Russell Road, Moor Park, Northwood, Middlesex, who held the position of High Sheriff of Greater London between 1973-4. The Clan from whom the Arthurs family descends began among the ancient Dalriadan kingdom of the west coast of Scotland. Their name comes from the Celtic personal name, Arthur, which is of various and often disputed etymology. The personal name Arthur may be derived from some early cognate of the Gaelic “art” and the Welsh “arth”, meaning “bear” and may indicate early Celtic worship of the bear or one who has a high regard for the bear’s virtuous qualities. The Latin motto,  ‘Impelle obstantia’ (meaning, ‘Thrust aside obstacles’) would originally have acted a war cry or slogan. Mottoes first appeared in coast of arms in the 14th and 15th centuries, but were not in general use until the 17th century. The office of High Sheriff of Greater London was created in 1965 and granted armorial bearings 1966. The blazon of the arms, as depicted here is: ‘Gules, two seaxes in saltire argent, pommels and hilts or, between in chief a Saxon Crown or and in base a horse courant argent’.

Provenance: the artist’s studio sale.

Condition: very good.

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