Old Master gift helps Blackfriars
As one of the newest and least wealthy institutions within Oxford University, Blackfriars Hall has thrived for the last 25 years largely thanks to the combined efforts of the Dominicans and the generous-spirited laypeople who work with them.
The Hall, and the Priory that hosts it, depend greatly on donations made by Mass-goers and other supporters. As we approach the 800th anniversary in 2021 of the friars’ first arrival in Oxford, it is apparent that both Hall and Priory need an injection of funds in order to secure and develop their mission.
It was therefore a tremendous delight to us when one of our friends proposed auctioning off a 14th-century ‘old master’ painting in his possession to assist us in this. This beautiful crucifixion by Lorenzo Veneziano (fl. 1356–1379) had been in his family’s possession for a hundred years, and caused great excitement when brought to auction (‘a very exciting addition to our knowledge of Venetian painting in the third quarter of the Trecento’).
The money donated from the sale (which far exceeded its reserve price) has with the donor’s agreement been divided into two funds: one to support a new scholarship in Theology and Art, the other to sustain the annual income of the Priory – essential in helping the friars deal with the rising maintenance costs of their historic buildings.
A large amount of further help is needed, so if you would like to discuss contributing to the future of Blackfriars through a benefaction, please contact Mr Richard Brown.
