Stories in Glass

"This superb volume makes us look anew at stained glass in Norfolk. No-one knows more about medieval glass in the county than David King who puts names to some of the medieval artists whose work we treasure today. Paul Harley's outstanding photography allows us to see details in the glass that would be impossible with the naked eye and complements David's comprehensive descriptions of surviving windows and their incredible stories.' - John E. Vigar, Ecclesiastical Historian 'This instructive and beautiful book is just what is needed to explore the ancient stained glass in Norfolk, which has the richest collection of medieval and Renaissance glass in Britain. David King gives a good introduction to stained glass, its use, and iconography, as well as informative descriptions of the windows at many locations and relates them to other items in the buildings. Paul Harley's photographs are superbly faithful to the windows.' Painton Cowen 'Norfolk's medieval glass is one of its greatest treasures, and no one knows more about it than David King does. His words, coupled with Paul Harley's outstanding photography, take us on an unforgettable journey through the very best of it. Stories In Glass will stand as the main text on the subject for many years, and it will be an essential companion for anyone following in their footsteps.' Simon Knott, Creator of the Churches of East Anglia websites 'Stories in Glass is a great entrée into the rich variety of surviving medieval stained glass in Norfolk. Bitesize entries to more than 60 locations across the county are accompanied by an insightful introduction on how to look at stained glass, the style and subjects of medieval windows, the glaziers and workshops who made them, and the donors and clients who commissioned and financed them.' Dr Jasmine Allen, Curator of The Stained Glass Museum 'Despite the best efforts of Protestant Reformers in the sixteenth century, Puritan iconoclasts in the seventeenth century, and centuries of exposure to the elements, Norfolk's churches and historic buildings preserve a stained glass heritage of extraordinary richness and diversity. This collection is brought to life by someone who has devoted his life to its study. David King's exemplary scholarship and in-depth knowledge of this rich heritage is well-known to academic circles. In this lively, readable and beautifully illustrated book, with images by Paul Harley, this remarkable treasure-trove of medieval glass can be enjoyed by a wide audience.' Professor Sarah Brown, Professor of Art History and Stained Glass Conservation, University of York. 'Scholarly and accessible, erudite and enjoyable, this book which will appeal to experts and newcomers alike. Both contributors are undisputed experts in their fields and the outstanding quality of Paul Harley's photographs is matched by the depth of learning in David King's introduction. Even if you know the glass well already, the photographs reveal details which are otherwise impossible to see and help to make this treasure trove of medieval art accessible. This book will delight and educate in equal measure.' Dr Rebecca Pinner, Associate Professor, University of East Anglia