Author(s)

G. A. Clifton

Abstract

The Deans Eye Rose window at Lincoln Cathedral has spectacular medieval glass, though the stone tracery of the window was by the end of the last century in a dangerous condition. This paper explains the investigations made to determine the most appropriate action to be taken and the consequent dismantling and reconstruction of the window with new reinforced stonework with the medieval glass protected by isothermal glazing. Keywords: Lincoln Cathedral, rose window, medieval glass, stone tracery. 1 History Lincoln Cathedral had a chequered history before being rebuilt in Gothic style from 1192. The Dean’s Eye rose window is located in the North gable wall of the Great North West Transept and was constructed as part of this reconstruction in 1220. The window has a daring structural concept and there is evidence that it required strengthening from an early period. Whilst many interventions had been made over the years, the original glass has survived throughout. 2 Approval process This project is a major intervention to one of the most significant medieval rose windows in Europe. It was therefore scrutinised by, and required approval from, a number of organisations. The proposals were first agreed by the Dean and Chapter of the Cathedral and were then passed to the Fabric Advisory Council of the Cathedral for their approval. The proposals were next submitted to English Heritage and the Cathedral Fabric Commission for England (CFCE) for approval and for

Keywords

Lincoln Cathedral, rose window, medieval glass, stone tracery.