John Piper was born on 13th December 1903 at Epsom in Surrey. Piper studied at Epsom College and also attended the Richmond School of Art. After college, at the behest of his father, Piper sat his law examinations which he promptly failed and shortly afterwards his father, a solicitor, died leaving Piper free to attend the Royal College of Art. He was appointed as an official war artist during World War Two and was asked personally by Sir Osbert Sitwell to paint his home; Renishaw Hall. In 1950 Piper delved into the world of stained glass and worked collaboratively on windows in Coventry Cathedral, the Chapel of Robinson College, Cambridge and Washington National Cathedral with his partner Patrick Reyntiens . Piper also set designed for the Royal Opera House and La Fenice, Venice. 180 of his works are in the Tate collection.