A Window into Acclaimed Artist's Life

Originally installed in the Heatherlie Parish Church in Selkirk, which has since been demolished, the five windows by Douglas Strachan (1875-1950) were salvaged and acquired by the current owner around 2003.

The exquisite pieces, some of which are almost three metres tall, were produced circa 1916 and feature various scenes from the Old Testament. The collection will highlight McTear’s Modern Life - 19^th & 20^th Century Design auction on 22^nd May. 

Douglas Strachan began his artistic journey at Gray's School of Art in Aberdeen before transitioning to a career as a newspaper illustrator in Manchester. His early work as a mural and portrait painter soon gave way to a focus on stained glass after a formative trip to France and Italy in 1899. 

While overseas, Strachan was deeply inspired by the medieval windows of Chartres, captivated by their luminous monumentality. The windows in this collection reflect Strachan’s unique blend of medieval European artistic influences and the burgeoning Arts & Crafts movement of his time. 

Commenting on the auction, McTear’s specialist, James Bruce, said: “The five windows are exceptional examples of Strachan’s legacy. Their provenance, artistic significance, and historical context make them invaluable additions to any collection of Scottish art or stained glass.” 

Strachan’s acclaim extended internationally, with notable works including four windows at The Peace Palace in The Hague and contributions to the Scottish National War Memorial at Edinburgh Castle. Over his career, he designed windows for over 350 churches across the UK, including prominent locations such as St. Paul’s Cathedral, Paisley Abbey, and Winchelsea Parish Church in Sussex. 

In addition to the Strachan collection, the 196 lot auction will feature an array of design classics from the 19th and 20th centuries, including pieces from Scottish, British, French, Italian, Austrian, Danish, and Norwegian artists. Furniture, ceramics, sculpture, posters, and prints will also be among the diverse international offerings.

View the complete catalogue for the 19th & 20th Century Design Auction here >>