The borough regalia, portraits and stained glass windows

The Town Hall is home to the borough regalia and contains a number of impressive stain glass windows and paintings.

IN THIS ARTICLE

  • The borough regalia
  • Portraits and fine art
  • Stained glass windows

The borough regalia

The Town Hall is home to some of the fine examples of silver gilt and civic gifts and donations. Of special interest is a silver model of a sixteen century warship, designed for use as a vessel for table wine.

The oldest item of insignia is the silver borough seal, which dates from about 1413.  A replica is now used for embossing the Mayors stationery.

Colchester has one of the largest maces in the country, this is used at many civic functions and Council meetings, it is a symbol of authority from the sovereign.

 

Portraits and fine art

There are many portraits and paintings of famous Colcestrians in the ornately decorated rooms of the Town Hall, the portrait of the Queen Elizabeth II, by artist Richard Stone has pride of place in the Moot Hall.  One of the most important paintings in the borough's collection is "A Flemish Merrymaking" by David Vinckeboons, which is located in the Grand Jury Room.

 

Stained glass windows

Within the Town Hall are some stunning stain glass windows, some of the best of which are located in the Council Chamber.  These depict the Roman Emperor Claudius, St Helena, Colchester Patron Saint and the Weavers' Memorial window. 

Related Articles