The bottom row of pictures in the West Window illustrates eight archbishops of York. In the row above are the Apostles, from whom archbishops trace the authority for their office. Next are scenes from the earthly life of Christ and his mother, these should be viewed in pairs and illustrate the Annunciation, Nativity, Resurrection and Ascention. The top most panels depict a scene set in heaven showing Mary crowned as Queen. The design in the stonework of the tracery represents the Sacred Heart of Christ and was intended to remind people of His love for the world.
In recent years, weathering and pollution damaged the stonework beyond repair and, in 1989-90 the Minster staff carved new stone for the entire window. The original stonework has been safely buried for posterity in nearby Dean's Park.
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