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These late medieval frescoes had been hidden beneath a layer of plaster for nearly 300 years in one of the oldest buildings at Cambridge University. The artwork, which celebrates the patrons of Christ’s College, was discovered in what is known as the First Court, dating back to the 15th century. Three images related to the crown feature the red Lancaster rose, a set of heavy gates, and a heraldic lily. Experts believe the frescoes were likely created in the early 16th century, with the last recorded mention of them occurring in the 1730s.
Historical Highlights Noted by Researchers
This educational institution in Cambridge has existed since 1437 as God’s House. It moved to its current location in 1448. In 1505, it was reestablished as Christ’s College by Henry VII’s mother, Lady Margaret Beaufort. Interestingly, the gates depicted in one of the frescoes were a symbol of the Beaufort family.
Christina Faraday, a doctor of art history at Cambridge University specializing in the visual and material culture of the Tudor era, described the discovery as incredibly exciting. According to her, the wall images illustrate how the college celebrated and promoted its royal patrons in the early years of the 16th century, following its reestablishment.
According to Ms. Faraday, Lady Margaret was an influential and devout woman with a keen interest in science, leaving a lasting mark on the college. These wall paintings represent “an early example of her family’s skillful use of visual ‘marketing’ even beyond the royal court.” Henry VII had very weak claims to the throne but learned to use family symbols to bolster his royal status. Dr. Faraday explained that the red rose was a symbol of the Lancasters, who fought against the Yorks in the Wars of the Roses. This symbol was likely introduced by Henry VII. The heraldic lily had represented English kings since the time of Edward III, when they also claimed the status of rulers of France. “The wall paintings were relatively inexpensive and often treated as disposable decor, which is why they were rarely preserved intentionally,” the scholar noted.
The structure, measuring 6 meters wide, is partially covered by wooden beams. It is located in the part of the roof that may have formed the northwest wall of the library. The frescoes are painted on a thin layer of plaster, with signs of lime mortar applied around the images, as reported by the Daily Mail.
The sheltered location on the roof has allowed the paintings to remain in good condition. However, this does not mean they will be put on public display. Christ’s College has sought expert advice on how to protect and preserve the frescoes during the ongoing restoration work and beyond.
Lord Simon Macdonald, a college lecturer, commented on the future of the wall paintings: “After the basic restoration, we will preserve the images, turning them into a time capsule that can be discovered another 300 years from now.”
