About the Church
Located in the historic Ghent neighborhood of Norfolk, Virginia, Christ & St. Luke’s Episcopal Church is a masterwork of Late Gothic Revival architecture. Built between 1909 and 1910 and designed by the firm Watson & Huckel, the church is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is celebrated as one of the finest expressions of English Perpendicular style in the United States. Its sanctuary is home to what are considered the premier installations of Franz Mayer & Co. (Mayer of Munich) stained glass in America, including a magnificent Great West Window and clerestory windows patterned after the Cologne Cathedral in Germany.
Our Work
Willet Studios was entrusted with the delicate restoration of these nationally significant Mayer of Munich windows. Our team approached the project with a commitment to preserving the theological depth and artistic excellence that has defined this sacred space for over a century.
Conservation and Stabilization The windows, created around 1909–1910, required expert intervention to ensure their continued longevity:
- Structural Stabilization: We focused on the structural integrity of the leaded panels, addressing issues related to age and environmental stress while maintaining the original craftsmanship.
- Preserving Painted Detail: A hallmark of the Munich style is its luminous, intricately painted detail. Our conservators worked with extreme restraint and sensitivity to clean and stabilize these hand-painted surfaces, ensuring the vibrancy of the figures and scenes remains clear for generations to come.
- Historical Sensitivity: Throughout the process, we honored the techniques of the original masters at Franz Mayer & Co., selecting materials and methods that respect the historic fabric of the windows.
Legacy of Preservation By combining traditional restoration techniques with modern conservation standards, we ensured that these historic masterworks continue to inspire the Norfolk community. The result is a sanctuary where the narrative and beauty of the glass remain a central part of the worship experience, protected for the future without losing any of their original character.
Resource
Christ & St. Luke’s Episcopal Church Official Website: christandstlukes.org
