One of our current conservation projects is the conservation of an important painted glass window by the artist Thomas Jervais (d. 1799) at Agher Church, Rathmoylan, Co. Meath. The first phase was removing the window from Agher (read more about this here).

The painted enamel window by Thomas Jervais’ (d. 1799) in Agher Church was executed in 1770 and presents Paul preaching at Athens, from the cartoons of Raphael. 

The conservation works are to be undertaken by the York Glaziers Trust. Intrinsic to their programme of works was the engagement of an Irish conservator who will gain experience with the aim of returning to Ireland and enhancing the skills base in this country. Emma Newman is the Irish conservator, and she will be sending us regular updates on the progress of works in the studio.

Part of the Jervais window in the York Glaziers Trust studio, ready for cleaning.

Detail of St. Paul
The window has been separated into three panels which are called 1A, 2A and 3A. Firstly, a rubbing was taken of the panels, all pre conservation documentation was typed up and the panels were dismantled. The top panel (3A) is completely clean, the middle and bottom panels (2A, 1A) are currently being cleaned.


Panels 1A and 2A are really interesting as they have several plates of glass. Some of the plates have been stained to create deeper shades of orange for the robes; some have fired glass paint and some plates cover cold painted sections which are unfired! The unfired paint needs to be cleaned very carefully and cannot be rushed as it is somewhat fragile.​

National Heritage Week 2016
As part of National Heritage Week 2016, the Irish Georgian Society will be hosting an open afternoon at Agher Church on 24th August, providing visitors with the rare opportunity to view the window once it has been reinstated.

Pictures: Emma Newman