Installed: 1906

Memorial name: Eustis Memorial Window
Dedicated to: Mary Ruth Channing Eustis (1818-1891)
Donor: Edith Hemenway Eustis (daughter-in-law)

Location: Left balcony

This window is a departure from the others in the beatitude series in several ways. Its primary color palette is shades of beige and brown. The arch motif behind the angel seems to be inspired by the Art Nouveau movement, popular between 1890 and 1910. The arch design can be read as a variation of a halo, while it also mimics a rosette design of a stained glass window. It is possible to interpret this as a “visual pun” from designer Frederick Wilson. Unlike the other beatitude windows, this personification of purity directly engages the viewer. She is flanked by cherubs holding palm branches and a victory garland stretched across her lower legs. Cast off to the sides of the cherubs are elaborately decorated shields with painted patterns created by stencils. This imagery suggests that a spiritual victory is achieved not by martial means, but through purity of the heart.

This window is dedicated to Mary Ruth Channing Eustis (1818-1891) and was given by her daughter-in-law, Edith Hemenway Eustis. Mary Ruth Channing Eustis was the daughter of the renowned preacher and theologian, Rev. William Ellery Channing, who was the minister of this congregation from 1803 to 1842 and is known as the Father of Unitarianism.

Glenn Kulbako Photography

1905 Design Gouache by Frederick Wilson