Paynters and Steyners

09.10.12

The earliest reference to "Paynters", those who decorated, gilded and coloured solid objects, was in 1283.  By the middle ages they had formed the Painter's Guild, and in 1502 joined with the "Steyners", who applied colour to fabric, to become the Painter-Stainers. They received their Royal Charter from Queen Elizabeth I in 1589 having been bequeathed their Hall in Little Trinity Street in 1532. The building suffered in the Great Fire of London in 1666 and during the Second World War but here we were, standing in Painters Hall, the home of the Worshipful Company of Painter-Stainers, and on the original site in Little Trinity Street.

The occasion was the reception for the opening of the annual "Art in the City" exhibition run by the Painters' Fine Art Society. With 21 artists represented and over 200 painting on show this was indeed a sight for sore eyes. Almost all paintings were for sale with prices ranging from £45 through to £25,000. There was an artist in residence, Ann Bowen, who displayed her skills as a calligrapher and heraldic artist; and we were entertained by David Shepherd who is not only one of the world's leading wildlife artists but also turned out to be an extremely amusing speaker. As always, delightful company and excellent hospitality. Our thanks to the the Painter-Stainers.

John Flynn
Master Marketor