Westminster Abbey has unveiled a new stained-glass window commissioned to celebrate the reign of Queen Elizabeth II.
Installed in the Abbey’s north transept, The Queen’s Window, designed on an iPad by David Hockney, depicts a vividly coloured country scene reflecting The Queen’s deep affection and connection to the countryside.
The Very Reverend Dr. John Hall, Dean of Westminster, said, “For many years, I pondered how we should celebrate The Queen’s reign in the Abbey.
“I was very pleased that David Hockney accepted my invitation to design this window which is a celebration of the reign of Her Majesty The Queen. What he has produced is directly accessible with wonderful colours. It is a country scene to honour a woman who loves her country.”
The brief to the artist was to provide something symbolic or representational of the subject, rather than a heraldic or figurative design, and for it to the recognisable as Hockney’s work. The completed design depicts a country scene set within Yorkshire and features hawthorn blossom using his distinct colour palette.
The window was dedicated to the Queen by the Dean of Westminster in a service attended by friends and family of the artist as well as those involved in the construction and manufacture of the window.
