Art and Crafts at St Martin of Tour Church, Lewannick 23.07.26

Tucked away inside St Martin's Church at Lewannick are these wonderful illustrations telling the story of the church's patron saint. Their bold linework, medieval character and beautifully drawn lettering immediately made me think of the Arts and Crafts movement. They have something of the look of illustrations by artists such as Walter Crane which made me think they could be original arts and craft pieces. I couldn't see a name attached to them. I don't think these are random Victorian devotional prints but part of a carefully designed series, probably produced after the rebuilding of St Martin's Church following the devastating fire of 1890. The church was extensively restored at that time, and a great deal of late Victorian artwork was added. The fact that they are framed and hung within the church suggests they may have been commissioned specifically for St Martin's, rather than mass-produced prints. Either way, they are striking pieces of church art and a lovely reminder that treasures are often found where you least expect them. There were 3 of them but the reflection on the 3rd picture made it difficult to see.