We are delighted to announce that Sir Paul Ruddock (OE 1976) and Stuart Southall (OE 1976) have generously donated to the school a rare stained-glass window of St Margaret of Antioch by pre-Raphaelite artist Sir Edward Burne-Jones (OE 1852).
This donation is a testament to the school’s commitment to providing access to excellence in education. Burne-Jones himself was admitted on an assisted place to King Edward’s School at a time when the Chief Master, James Prince Lee, was raising it to be one of the leading schools in the country. It is a perfect example of what can be achieved when access and excellence go hand-in-hand. The artwork is an important addition to the school, and our students, staff and visitors will certainly appreciate the beauty and history of this remarkable piece.
Sir Edward Burne-Jones was a renowned pre-Raphaelite artist and a leading figure in the arts and crafts movement. He was responsible for creating the stained-glass window in St Philip’s Cathedral in Colmore Row, Birmingham, amongst many other notable works. The stained-glass window of St Margaret of Antioch is a remarkable example of Burne-Jones’ artistic ability and craftsmanship.
Dr Katy Ricks, Chief Master, said: “The donation of this beautiful stained-glass window is a wonderful gift for our students. We are immensely grateful to Sir Paul Ruddock and Stuart Southall for their generosity and commitment to the school. This artwork will serve as a valuable interdisciplinary resource for our students, providing a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of history, literature and the visual arts.”
The vast majority of Burne-Jones’ stained-glass windows remain in their original buildings, making this an extremely rare and exciting opportunity for the school to own such a significant piece of history.
James Ramsay, KES Head of Art, said:“It is really exciting to have this rare piece by Sir Edward Burne-Jones as part of our collection. It will provide our students with a unique opportunity to study and appreciate the intricate details and artisque techniques used in this masterpiece. It will inspire them to develop their own artistic skills and creativity.”
We are currently deciding on the best place to display the stained-glass window, where it can be appreciated and enjoyed by pupils, staff, and the entire KES community. This remarkable artwork will enhance the school’s cultural heritage and inspire future generations.
