John Egerton Christmas Piper (1903–1992) was a prolific and versatile English artist known for his contributions to modern British art, encompassing painting, printmaking, stained glass, and set design. Born on December 13, 1903, in Epsom, Surrey, Piper played a significant role in shaping the cultural landscape of mid-20th century Britain.

Piper initially studied at the Richmond School of Art and later at the Royal College of Art. His early works were influenced by abstraction, but he soon embraced a more figurative and eclectic style, drawing inspiration from the English landscape and its architectural heritage.

During World War II, Piper worked as an official war artist, capturing the effects of the conflict on British cities. His wartime experiences influenced his later artistic output, particularly his interest in architectural subjects and the integration of abstraction with traditional representation.

Piper was a founding member of the influential artist collective known as the "Objective Abstraction" group in the 1930s. His collaborations with other artists, including his partnership with Myfanwy Evans, whom he married in 1937, resulted in a dynamic and rich body of work.

As a leading figure in the Neo-Romantic movement, Piper's paintings often featured ancient churches, historic buildings, and landscapes imbued with a sense of nostalgia and poetic contemplation. His interest in capturing the essence of place extended to his involvement in the Recording Britain project, documenting threatened landscapes during wartime.

Beyond painting, Piper's talents extended to other artistic mediums. He gained acclaim for his stained glass designs, notably collaborating with Patrick Reyntiens on the celebrated stained glass windows at Coventry Cathedral. His set designs for operas and theatrical productions showcased his multidisciplinary approach to the arts.

John Piper's artistic legacy is significant, and his works can be found in major collections, including the Tate Gallery. His impact on the cultural and artistic identity of mid-20th century Britain, as well as his dedication to preserving its architectural heritage, remains enduring. John Piper passed away on June 28, 1992, leaving behind a legacy that continues to be celebrated for its diversity, depth, and contribution to the visual arts in Britain.