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Stained Glass of Percy Bacon & Brothers

North Bovey, St John the Baptist
Devon
North Aisle 3: Left light.
North Aisle 3: Centre light.
North Aisle 3: Right light.
North Aisle 3: Tracery.
North Aisle 3: Left light detail.

North Aisle 3: BVM, Crucifixion, St John

NA3: BVM, Crucifixion, St John. c1920.




Posted 05 April 2026
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There is a single window by Percy Bacon and Brothers at North Bovey. No confirmation has come to light to confirm the exact date of the execution of the window.1 However, the attribution is safe; the figurative work is the same design as the south chancel window at Wingrave, Buckinghamshire.

The window depicts the Blessed Virgin, Christ on the Cross, and St John, attended by demi-angels. Above the Virgin and St John scrolls contain the words; "God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son..." At the foot of the cross a scroll continues the bible passage; "..that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." At the base of the central light is an Angus Dei in garter. In the small tracery lights cherubim look on.

The window is dedicated:

"In loving memory of Frank Gotto M. Inst, C.E., F.G.S this window is given by his widow, Ethel, daughter of the late Revd W. H. Thornton formerly rector of this Parish. 1866 - 16 Nov 1918. Life's work well done."

The dedication is a little confusing, as the dates relate to the dedicatee not the the Rev. Thornton who died 31 March 1916.2

 

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References: Use your browser's Back button to return to text.

  1. An article in the Exeter and Plymouth Gazette - Friday 21 May 1920 - reported on the re-opening of St John's after restoration. The report mentions that all the windows in the church had been removed, cleaned, and reinstalled, but makes no mention of the stained glass. It is possible that this window post dates the restoration.
  2. Wikipedia. Entry for William Henry Thornton.

Location Map:

NGR: SX 73938 83833
Sat Nav Post Code: TQ13 8QZ

All text and photos © Alan Spencer, except where otherwise stated; All Rights Reserved