Chapel

Chapel ceiling

This wonderful piece of craftsmanship is almost certainly responsible for the superb acoustics of the space.

It was designed by the master plasterer John Papworth in a neo-classical design of squares and octagons. The intricate central ornaments were carved, rather than cast in moulds. It is plastered in light blue and cream following a Wedgewood-inspired colour scheme.

Detail of the ceiling, Chapel of St Peter and St Paul © ORNC

The Samuel Green organ

The organ at the west end of the Chapel is a fine example of the work of Samuel Green (1740-96), the leading organ builder of his day.

It was completed at a cost of £1,000 in 1798 and is probably the largest instrument built by Green still in its original position. It has three manuals and the pipework, which is noted for its purity of tone and rich mixture stops, is still in use.

The handsome and delicately carved Spanish mahogany case, designed by William Newton, cost a further £500.

Chapel Organ © ORNC and Jigsaw Design & Publishing 2010

The Altarpiece and Pulpit

The influence of the artist, Benjamin West, can be seen all over the Chapel, particularly in the huge altarpiece. Its story is taken from an account in the Acts of the Apostles.

We see St Paul shipwrecked on the island of Malta. The islanders have helpfully lit a fire to dry out any survivors, and a snake, driven from the woodpile by the heat, has fastened itself onto Paul’s hand.

Miraculously he is able to cast it into the flames. The worshipping Pensioners would have understood this image. Not only is West painting about the rescue and protection of seafaring men but also about divine intervention and the threat of Satan.

This is one of West’s most ambitious paintings. It is also the only one of his large canvases to remain in the place for which it was intended, sitting in a carved and gilded frame by Richard Lawrence.

What's on at the Chapel?

In addition to regular services and lunchtime recitals, the Chapel also hosts special events, concerts and weddings.