Cardinal Newman Chapel, The London Oratory
- Location:
- Kensington
- Value:
- £64,000
- Client:
- The London Oratory
- Professional team:
- Russell Taylor Architects
Utilising the knowledge and skills of the Conservation Team, FWA successfully completed works to create The Cardinal Newman Chapel at The London Oratory in time for the recent visit of Pope Benedict XVI.
The focus of the Chapel is a copy in oils of Sir John Everett Millais’s portrait of Cardinal Newman. The painting was positioned in the centre of the altarpiece, divided by small Corinthian shafts and supported on paired volute consoles all formed of scagliola, (a composite substance made from selenite, glue and natural pigments, imitating marble and other hard stones). The altar rail, created by a joiner, was decorated with a marbling effect to complement the scagliola. The introduction of a new lighting scheme, the creation of a raised dais and the complete redecoration of the Chapel completed the scheme. The works have been commended as emblematic of Catholic architectural patronage at its most enlightened, and provide a model of how to commission new work in historic churches.
Project Overview:
- Unique chapel construction below organ loft
- Relocated confessional boxes
- Raised dais and altar from scagliola
- Altarpiece to display Cardinal Newman portrait
- Timber platform and structure
- New lighting scheme
- Marbling and graining finishes
- Structure for altar table
- New timber balusters
- Installation of chapel gates
Our supply chain partner Richard Feroze, (Scagliola & Fine Plasterwork) wrote to Chris Maryon, FWA Conservation Director:
“I am writing to thank you, John Charlton, and all the members of your staff for the considerable assistance and support I received during the installation of the scagliola at the London Oratory. Apart from the professional and practical skills which were invaluable, I was particularly appreciative of the positive and friendly attitude I encountered from everyone at FWA. I fear that I may have stretched the notion of ‘attendance’ to breaking point, but I hope that the end result justifies the pain!
As far as I can tell, everyone at the Oratory is very happy with the new chapel, and I think we have achieved something quite special. I hope the general public will feel the same way.
Once again, Chris, many thanks for everything; it was a pleasure to meet and work with you all.”
