Conserved Textiles Unveiled at All Saints', Cambridge
© CCT
This September, The Painted Church (All Saints’, Cambridge) unveiled newly conserved textiles.
Famous for its Victorian Gothic architecture, painted walls, and stained glass, All Saints’ also holds an outstanding collection of textiles. Influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement, these works may even have formed part of George Frederick Bodley’s original artistic vision for the church. In September, Friends of The Painted Church proudly presented the results of the first phase of a major conservation project, generously funded by Art Friends Cambridge and Thalia Waste Management.
The conserved embroidery showcases hallmarks of the Arts and Crafts style: natural motifs and the visible hand of the maker. When inspected closely, you will notice that each of the roses on the altar curtains are different - carefully stitched by multiple artisans, in deliberate contrast to the uniformity of machine-made design. They form a striking complement to the stained-glass window behind, reputedly a William Morris design.
As part of the Open Cambridge exhibitions, visitors were invited to see the works up close, alongside before-and-after photographs. The display drew an impressive 300 visitors.
© Gyles Glover
With support from the Churches Conservation Trust (CCT), Friends of The Painted Church continues to raise funds to preserve the church’s exquisite textile collection. We are deeply grateful to all who have helped bring the first phase of this vital conservation project to completion. To support the conservation efforts at All Saints', you can do so here:
Date written: 4th September 2025