Humanitarians I

1958 – Washington National Cathedral – North Outer Aisle

These two lancets are almost impressionist paintings in glass. The figures seem to emerge, created from the bright speckled background.  Given to honor Red Cross leader Mable Thorpe Boardman, the humanitarian subject matter was near and dear to Rowan’s heart.  In the video clip below, he explains why it is one of his favorite windows.

Iconography

At the top of the left lancet, prison reformer Elizabeth Fry is tending to some prisoners, barely visible, locked in their cells.  The bottom half of this lancet features George Washington Carver, a botanist, agricultural chemist and a teacher.  Some of the plants he developed are surrounding him and ethnically diverse children are enjoying the fruits of his labor.

The right lancet is solely devoted to Dr. Albert Schweitzer.  Against a bright sun, he is carrying an African child on his shoulders. Four figures with outstretched arms are silhouetted against his apron and as Jewels of Light says they are “in supplication, recalling the missionary’s observation that ‘all of humanity is stretching out its hands to you.’” Crossing the bottom of both lancets are the words, “Faith, hope and love endure these three.”

Year Completed

1958

Artists

Rowan LeCompte, Irene Matz LeCompte

Fabricator

Rowan LeCompte, Irene Matz LeCompte

Location In Building

North Outer Aisle Bay 7