11 YEARS AFTER

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 23044, 23 May 1938, Page 11

11 YEARS AFTER

WINDOW ARRIVES COLLEGE MEMORIAL EXPENDITURE OF £3OOO [by telegraph—own correspondent] CHRISTCHURCH, Saturday When the members of the council of the Canterbury University College decided, 14 years ago, to have designed a war memorial window to replace the north window in the college hall, they did not foresee that it would be May. 19.'38, when the window arrived in New Zealand. Yet such was the case, for the window arrived in Lyttelton by the Port Jackson a few days ago, nearly 11 years alter the order was placed. No definite arrangements have been made ns to when the window will be erected, but the question will probably be considered by the council at its meeting on May 30.

Artist's Difficulties The window has been the subject of numerous communications between the council, querying the delay, and tho artist, explaining tho difficulties that arose. The work was entrusted to nn eminent English artist, Mr. Martin Travels, at the contract price of £3OOO. Measured plans of the window were sent to Mr. Travers in 1924 and tho final design was forwarded in 1927. Ihe definite, order was placed during the latter half of 1927. Five elaborate stained glass panels comprise the window, and the general scheme of the design represents tho service of humanity and the defence of tho achievements of civilisation. Symbolical Groups The central figure is symbolical of Humanity, supported by two figures, representing Action and Thought. 1 heso are supported bv two double groups of climbers, representing Service by Action at the right of Humanity, and Service by Thought at the left of Humanity. Service by action is represented by King Alfred occupying a central position at the head of two groups representing action in war and action in peace. Service by Thought is represented by Shakespeare occupying a central position at the head of two groups of figures representing service in thought in the Arts and Sciences respectively. A group of soldiers defending the Mount of Humanity against ignoranco and brutality occupies the base of the window. '1 he soldiers wear the uniforms of the Great War, and New Zealanders are prominent. The group includes figures of a nurse and a Maori.