Holy Martyrs
Mathry, Pembrokeshire
Set on a hill commanding panoramic views of the coast, Mathry has claims to be one of the oldest settlements in Pembrokeshire.
The church was reinvented from fragmentary medieval ruins in 1926-7 and is characteristic of the architect's later work in its use of indigenous materials and identifiably Welsh vernacular motifs. The colourful reredos has recently been conserved by Perry Lithgow.
St Eloi's is a simple, two cell, building with a humble exterior, but a beautiful and evocative interior. The space is dominated by the splendid rood loft, carved screen and simple pulpit, all standing against the west face of the medieval screen wall. Both fonts are of stone; one is preserved in situ, being built up from a few ancient stones discovered during excavation, the other octagonal one, stands on three rough steps that are for the most part medieval, described as 'perfect' when uncovered. There is a delightful stoup and two matching piscinas carved from grey slate.
The reredos is one of a group of similar painted dossals that Coates Carter designed for churches in Pembrokeshire. A rectangular wooden panel, painted with gesso and coloured with tempera, in a moulded frame crowned with elaborately carved cresting which incorporates some of the architect’s 'hook' sub cusping.
In contrast to all this care and expense, the open backed bench pews could scarcely be more humble, or more appropriate. The Friends are proud to be able to conserve this precious Welsh document of Arts & Crafts ecclesiology, design and craftsmanship.
