Charles Eamer Kempe was a painter who specialized in decorating the interiors of churches in the 1860s. He founded his own stained glass company, CE Kempe & Co in London, in 1868. His training helped him excel in his art, and he was able to establish a unique style that was fashionable in high church practices at the time.
Kempe’s artistic skills lay more in the ability to suggest ideas than in the ability to execute them himself. He insisted that only the firm’s name should take credit for its work, and its individual members should remain anonymous. A key technique that Kempe perfected was the use of silver stain on clear glass, which created a yellow tint that could be either delicate or deep depending on the level of stain. One of Kempe’s most significant stylistic influences were the stained glass works of Northern Germany and Flanders from the 16th century.
Kempe took several trips to Europe, often bringing along artists from his studio. The insignia for his company from 1895 to his death in 1907 was a wheatsheaf from his family’s coat of arms. After his death, his cousin Walter Tower and three other directors took over the company, and the insignia changed to a wheatsheaf with a black tower.
In addition to his work in church decoration, Kempe was also an influential figure in the Arts and Crafts movement. He was one of the main supporters of William Morris, who is considered the father of the movement. Kempe’s works can still be found in many churches today, including the St Mary, Ecclesfield in Sheffield.
One of Kempe’s most notable works is the Memorial Window to John Thomas Jeffcock in St Mary, Ecclesfield. Jeffcock was the Rector of Wolverhampton and Prebendary of Lichfield, and the window was created in his memory after his death in 1895. The window is intricate, with details that reflect Kempe’s distinctive style.
The Memorial Window is a multi-panelled stained glass window with a central image of St Michael holding a sword and a shield, standing on a dragon that represents the devil. The apostles, prophets, and evangelists surround St Michael in smaller panels. The lower section of the window features notable saints, including St George, St Andrew, and St Patrick. The tracery of the window features angels playing musical instruments, adding a playful element to the otherwise solemn imagery.
The window is an excellent example of Kempe’s use of silver stain on clear glass to create a delicate yellow glow. The details are intricate, and the overall effect is striking. The Memorial Window remains one of the highlights of St Mary, Ecclesfield.
Kempe’s work in St Mary, Ecclesfield is not limited to the Memorial Window. He also created a series of windows for the Lady Chapel, which depict the life of Christ. These windows are part of a rare series that has survived intact, and the details are again highly intricate. Each panel tells a story from the life of Christ, from his birth to his death and resurrection.
The windows in the Lady Chapel are known for their use of bright, bold colours. Unlike the Memorial Window, which uses yellow tints to create a more delicate atmosphere, the windows in the Lady Chapel feature blues, reds, and greens that are highly saturated. The overall effect is joyful and celebratory, reflecting the message of hope and redemption that is at the heart of the Christian faith.
Kempe’s influence on the world of arts and crafts, as well as on church decoration, continues to be felt. His legacy is evident in the works of other stained glass artists who followed in his footsteps, including the likes of Christopher Whall and Douglas Strachan. His distinctive style remains highly recognizable, and his works continue to inspire awe and wonder in those who view them.
Posted by Budby on 2016-12-02 14:59:38