Riddle of 1920s stained glass windows at historic mansion

The owners of a Jacobean mansion are hoping somebody with a knowledge of ancient Arabic will be able to help them decipher a mysterious inscription.
Clare Oglesby of Goldsborough Hall near KnaresboroughClare Oglesby of Goldsborough Hall near Knaresborough
Clare Oglesby of Goldsborough Hall near Knaresborough

Clare and Mark Oglesby, of Goldsborough Hall, have puzzled over the exotic lettering on stained glass windows at the hall dating back to the 1920s ever since moving into the Grade II* listed residence in Knaresborough eight years ago.

They know the windows were a gift to the hall’s former royal occupants – HRH Princess Mary and her husband Viscount Henry Lascelles – from a Grand Mufti of Jerusalem.

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The Sunni Muslim cleric, who was in charge of Jerusalem’s Islamic holy places and served under British rule during the 1920s, had commissioned the stained glass as an attempt to curry favour with the British Royal Family.

But there is no record as to what the windows actually say, and the Oglesbys are now seeking the public’s help. Anyone who can help translate should call 01423 867321.

Clare said: “We know the Grand Mufti’s stained glass was installed in the 1920s and that the windows are inscribed with ornate, flowing Arabic but we are intrigued to know exactly what they say.”