Artist: WS Frith
Year: 1911
Location: Reading Abbey
Type: Plaque
Material: Stainless steel and limestone
Accessibility: Step free access through the Forbury Gardens into Reading Abbey on uneven surfaces
Description: This plaque is carved in the memory of Hugh de Boves, the First Abbot of Reading Abbey. The three plaques found in the Chapter House of the Reading Abbey ruins, including this one, were installed in 1911 by Dr Jamieson Body Hurry who was a local physician and author with a passion for local history. Recently, as part of the ongoing work to preserve the Abbey for future generations, a stainless steel canopy has been added to protect the plaque against weathering. The thick stone plaque is positioned above head height on the far end of the Chapter House, bearing the symbol of Reading Town. Several people are depicted in the scene in three layers of careful craft. It is presumed that Hugh de Boves is seen kneeling on the ground, in the ceremony to become the first Abbot of Reading, with monks and soldiers surrounding the two parties in the centre.
Link:
Reading News
Berkshire Sculpture Park 