LICHFIELD CATHEDRAL SURVEY

We carried out a condition survey of the Victorian ironwork by Skidmore at Lichfield Cathedral, including the nave screen, pulpit and stairs, aisle gates, choir stall fronts and mace stands. We then produced proposals and budget costings for the analysis of the paint scheme, surface cleaning and repairs.

Francis Skidmore (1817-1896) was born in Birmingham, the son of a jeweller. The family moved to Coventry shortly afterwards and Skidmore was apprenticed to his father, learning the skills of metalworking and jewel setting. In 1845 Skidmore registered as a silversmith and by about 1850, based in West Orchard, he was also producing large-scale work in iron and brass.

In 1861 Skidmore set up “Skidmore’s Art Manufacturers”. At the International Exhibition of 1862, Skidmore won a medal for “progress, elegance of design and excellent workmanship” for his exhibits, which included the Hereford Screen. His innovative iron, brass and silverwork won him great acclaim and prestigious commissions.