Re-Glazing Angels 2023-24

When we embarked on this project, many of the paintings in our permanent collection urgently needed re-glazing. Some works were almost impossible to enjoy as reflections seriously impaired the view. More importantly, UV light harms the artworks whereas modern, non-reflective glass stops UV damage and helps to conserve the paintings for future generations to enjoy. Re-glazing Angels raises funds to protect and enhance items that have been improperly glazed in the past (some even with Perspex) or add protective glass to items that currently have nothing. Thanks to the generosity of so many Friends we have now reglazed over 30 paintings, but there remains much more to be done.

We started with items from the super Animals in the Art Gallery exhibition but expanded to include important pieces from elsewhere in the Mansion. We are now focusing on pieces that will appear in the exciting Constable exhibitions in 2026 but have plans to work on other much-loved items too. All framing takes place in situ so there is no danger of damage in transit, and our experts have used the opportunity to touch up frames too.

All donations however large or small are hugely welcome: we pool gifts to enable as many items as possible to be reglazed. If you prefer, you can donate the full amount to protect an individual item - click on the list at the bottom of the page - or if you have another specific work in mind, do get in touch. Where an individual item is supported, your generosity will be recognised in perpetuity with an entry into the Borough’s register of artworks.

Our Angels giving levels are:

Gabriel – £350 for the largest pieces

Raphael – £250 for medium works

Archangel – £150 for smaller individual pieces

Angel – £50

Seraphim – £25

Cherubim – £15 for gifts made in the name of children

Pet Angel - Remember your much-loved pet with a bespoke donation of your choice

Thank you for being an Angel

*Updated 21 May 2024

Cecil Lay (1885-1956) – Contrasts No.2