The ideas conveyed by the window are not and could not be capable of anything approaching full expression in terms of language. The matter rests ultimately with the perspective and receptive capacity of the spectator. The window may be called a "Nativity Window", but the point of view is a contemplative one and there is no attempt at the realistic presentation of an historical event.
- The Shepherd, simple and humble both in nature and station, accepting without question or afterthought a New Beauty as, simply and humbly, he accepts the beauty of the flowers he kneels among. There is no difficulty here; he is accustomed to "miracles". He has attained wisdom otherwise than by treacherous, tortuous and well nigh interminable paths of knowledge.
- Not so the King, the learned man. He was a much later arrival and for many good reasons.
- Power - his crown and kingship
- Pride - the peacock's "eye" embroidered on his shoulder
- Wealth - his rich clothing
all these and many other things, weighed him down on his journey. He looks long and searchingly at the "miracle" - satisfying himself, as he is used to do, by means of the outward eye. The triumph of Humility still tries his understanding.
- Behind the King stands Michael the Archangel "Standard bearer of the Hosts of Christ", an idea to be associated with what I have said of the King.
- the Archangel Gabriel, carrying the lily and crowned with hedge roses, may be associated with the Shepherd.
- The Water of Life springs out beneath and the Rosebush growing there may suggest blossoming of any simple virtues the beholder may please.
- The significance of the Red Cross appearing in the ray of light from the star at the window's apex should not be too hard to guess at.
Comments about this site or problems? Contact Webmaster (Colin Richards) at webmaster@stmatthewsoxhey.org.uk
Last updated 10/03/2003 10:00:00 Author: Karl Parsons (1916)
