Guardian Angel
Studio Unknown Circa 1975
61 1/2" × 20 1/2"
DESCRIPTION: The modern window is one of a pair flanking the Baptistry featuring a guardian angel. Its companion is Guardian Angel (Window #6) on the south side of the Baptistry. As modern works of stained glass art, they are in pleasant contrast with the majority of windows that beautify St. Paul's. The liberal use of clear glass in both windows brings in a brighter light allowing the pair to stand out.
The heavenly being is dressed in a red garment and green cloak. The kneeling figure, with a fine set of golden wings, is in an attitude of prayer, with palms together, fingers extended and touching, and head bent.
SYMBOLISM: The angel plays various roles: a messenger, artist's muse, companion, and an attendant spirit or guardian.
MEMORIAL: There is no memorial nameplate on this window, nor is there one on its companion. Both were given in memory of a three year old child, Roseanne Marie Sawyer, born in 1970 to Mr. and Mrs. William Russell Sawyer. On July 4, 1973, she accidentally fell into a canal where she nearly drowned. Roseanne was rushed to the hospital where she was revived, but died two days later. The child was buried in a ceremony from St. Paul's with Father Gene Norman officiating.
NOTE: There are minor variations between this version of the guardian angel and the companion Guardian Angel. The windows were originally installed backward and had to be re-installed.
Source: The Golden Cockerel: The Art, Symbolism & History of the Stained Glass Windows, St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Key West, Florida by Winifred Shine Fryzel.
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