14. THE ROUNDELS

Returning to the central aisle, the main piers of the nave and the clustered columns at the crossing are made of honey-coloured sandstone from Pyrmont in Sydney, in contrast to the white stone from Bundanoon used for walls and details. Above each octagonal pier are carved roundels, depicting a scene from the life of Christ.

Including the two on the east wall, there are fourteen of them in all and they are unique in Australia. They start with the birth of Jesus at the south-west end of the nave, and finish with the events at Calvary near the Bishop's throne and the Ascension opposite. 

The roundels were carved by the Scottish-Australian sculptor, W.P. Macintosh, who also carved the Last Supper in the Sanctuary, and did much work in Sydney, including  the sculpture groups on the Queen Victoria Building. His skill is well demonstrated by these lively scenes in high relief.


WHERE THEY'RE LOCATED ...

Western entrance:

1. The birth of Jesus, shepherds adoring.
2. The wise men adore the baby.
3. The flight into Egypt.

Above the font:

4. Jesus blesses the children.
5. Jesus and the woman at the well.
6. Jesus with Mary and Martha.

Soldiers' Chapel:

7. Jesus transfigured.
8. The return of the prodigal son.

Lady Chapel:

9. Judas kisses Jesus.
10. Jesus is scourged.

East wall of Sanctuary:

11. Pilate shows Jesus to the crowd.
12 Simon takes the cross.

The Choir:

12. Calvary.
13. Jesus ascends to Heaven.