A NEW triptych at Tewkesbury Abbey, in Gloucester diocese, portrays the relationship between Christ, the Holy City, and the town of Tewkesbury. It is by the Bulgarian icon-writer Silvia Dimitrova, whose work can be seen in Wells Cathedral and St Paul's Cathedral, as well as other churches.

The Tewkesbury triptych has been placed behind the altar in St Edmund's Chapel. It looks traditional, and yet it has several local touches, including mustard flowers and horseradish, and an image of the Abbey's architect and master stonemason, Neil Birdsall, who recently retired after 32 years of service. It was recently dedicated by the Bishop of Tewkesbury, the Rt Revd Martyn Snow (above, right).

Ms Dimitrova showed an early talent in Bulgaria, and, after graduation, studied under Georgi Tchouchev, considered by many to be a master of Bulgarian icon-writing. She works in traditional egg tempera on wood, and has worked as artist-in-residence at Wells Cathedral, where she painted the Stations of the Cross.

The Vicar of Tewkesbury Abbey, Canon Paul Williams (left), describes the triptych as "a stunning piece of work; the level of detail and the colours are absolutely beautiful. . . We hope everyone will come and see it."