The medieval colleges of Oxford University were a natural setting for Pre-Raphaelite activity. Most of "Mariana" (1851) was painted in Oxford and was inspired by the stained glass in the Chapel of Merton College. The garden glimpsed through the window is said to be that of Thomas Combe.

Adjacent to the hall, the Fitzjames arch has signs of the zodiac.

Astrolabe

Merton College's astrolabe is engraved "Lat.52.6/m Oxonia" and was made around 1360 for use in Oxford. It was probably bequeathed to the College by Simon Bredon.

Images on Camera and Canvas

Amazon Books

The Pocket Guide to Oxford: A Guidebook to the Architecture, History, and Principal Attractions of Oxford, with Help from Our Knowledgeable Friend, the Oxford Dodo

Author: Philip Atkins, Michael Johnson

Publisher: Oxgarth Press (2010)

Binding: Paperback, 96 pages

Oxford and the Pre-Raphaelites (Ashmolean Handbooks)

Author: Jon Whiteley

Publisher: Ashmolean Museum (1989)

Binding: Paperback, 80 pages

Location