Panel, alabaster, depicting the Coronation of the Virgin, English, late 14th century

The panel has chamfered edges and is carved with a double ledge at the top, presumably representing clouds to indicate heaven. The crowned and haloed Virgin, wearing a tight-fitting gown and a cloak, kneels on the lower left of the panel, facing right. At a higher level, the crowned and haloed Christ, with a bifid beard, and wearing a gown and a cloak draped over his left shoulder, is seated on a thone which fills the width of the panel. He faces the Virgin, his right arm raised. His bare feet rest on a ledge. The proportion of the legs of the kneeling figure is completely wrong, the lower part of the legs being far too short.

The Virgin's arms and Christ's left arm and hands are missing. There are many repaired breaks in the upper part of the panel. Green paint remains on the ledge on which Christ rests his feet. Gilding remains on the background at the top and bottom of the panel. There are the remains of gesso knobs on the upper background. The halo behind Christ is in green, that behind Mary is red and gilt. The four apertures at the back of the throne are not carved but painted in black. The panel has been backed with slate.

Given by Dr W. L. Hildburgh FSA

Acquired by Dr W.L. Hildburgh from Acton Surgey. On loan to the Museum from Dr W. L. Hildburgh since 1947. Given by Dr Hildburgh in 1950.

Historical significance: The panel shows the Virgin kneeling instead of the more common arrangement where Christ and the Virgin are seated on the same level. There are only two other recorded examples of English alabaster Coronation panels showing the Virgin kneeling.

This alabaster panel is from late 14th century England.
There has been used black paint to create an impression of four apertures at the back of the throne. Paint was often applied directly to the alabaster without using ground. The figures have been polished to reflect the light.

A.29-1950