3-003-923 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Incised pavement in Lichfield Cathedral, 1861. St Chad on horseback. 'Amongst the many noteworthy works comprised in the recent restorations, under G. G. Scott, R.A....is conspicuous the elaborately-wrought pavement...This work is principally remarkable from its representation of a process which has scarcely been recognised in our late revival of ancient art. We allude to the execution of "storied" pavements...rich with illustrations of sacred history and significance...The pavement...has been subdivided quarterly. In each division is a circular slab, upwards of 3ft. in diameter, of a peculiarly hard stone, obtained from Hopton Wood. Around each of these principal medallions are four smaller ones of some 2ft. in diameter. By reference to our Engraving it will be seen that the large medallions are illustrative of incidents connected especially with the diocese, and that the smaller ones contain busts of eight of those prelates who were benefactors to the building...The designing and execution of the series of incised medallions was intrusted to Messrs. Clayton and Bell, of Regent-street...The elaborate mosaic of encaustic tiles, tesserae, and marbles was executed by Messrs. Minton from the design of the architect'. tile roundel in the floor of the Sanctuary showing St Chad on horseback. Late 19th century Victorian tiles from Stoke-on-Trent, installed by Sir George Gilbert Scott. From "Illustrated London News", 1861.