FDA-D.1768-2024
Parts
Object number
FDA-D.1768-2024
Object type
Identification
Title
Interior of Lower Chapel, Eton
Title Type
assigned by cataloguer
Comments
Lower Chapel is used mostly by younger boys at Eton. It was consecrated in 1891 as part of the College’s 450th anniversary celebrations. Davison’s watercolour shows the alterations made by architect Sir Walter John Tapper (1861–1935). Tapper’s 1924 scheme was a memorial to the fallen of the First World War and incorporated gilt inscriptions, a new organ case, and decorative panelling. Tapper enclosed the organ loft with a row of carved porthole windows, here apparently curtained in orange fabric.
Another feature of the memorial were four tapestries designed by Amy Akers, Lady Chilston (d.1962), depicting the legend of St George, which can be glimpsed at the right of Davison’s painting.
Another feature of the memorial were four tapestries designed by Amy Akers, Lady Chilston (d.1962), depicting the legend of St George, which can be glimpsed at the right of Davison’s painting.
Other number
CN-12
Description
Dimensions
height (actual size): 324mm
width (actual size): 418mm
width (actual size): 418mm
Inscription
Signed in watercolour, lower right: 'NORA DAVISON'
Materials & techniques note
Pencil and watercolour on paper
Production
Person
Davison, Nora, 1855 - 1950 (Artist)
Date
1924-1940
History and association
Object history note
Provenance: Sold through Gorringe’s, Lewes, 18 February 2019 (Lot 373), as ‘Lower Chapel, Eton College’;; from which sale purchased by Charles Nugent (1962-2023; CNCA, MCM, 1975-1979); by whom bequeathed to Eton College
Exhibited: ‘A Woman’s View: Nora Davison’s watercolours of Eton’, Verey Gallery, Eton College, 23 May to 28 September 2025 (catalogue number 38)
Exhibited: ‘A Woman’s View: Nora Davison’s watercolours of Eton’, Verey Gallery, Eton College, 23 May to 28 September 2025 (catalogue number 38)
