Alabaster statuette depicting a bishop. English, early 16th century.

This large figure of a bishop stands with a pastoral staff in his left hand. He wears a mitre decorated at the front with two stylized flowers, and a cope over his other vestments. There is nothing to identify this particular bishop, whose features are carved in an unusually naturalistic manner.

The hands and forearms of the figure are missing as well as the top of the staff. The left shoulder is badly chipped. Only very slight traces of paint remain: green at the bottom, red on the sleeves and gilding on the mitre. The back of the figure has been completely scooped out, doubtless to lessen the weight. There are five lead-plugged holes, all with latten wires attached.

Given by Dr W. L. Hildburgh FSA

On loan to the Museum from Dr W.L. Hildburgh since 1938. Given by Dr Hildburgh in 1946.

This large figure of a bishop stands with a pastoral staff in his left hand wearing a mitre decorated at the front with two stylized flowers and a cope over his other vestments. His hands and the top of his pastoral staff are missing. There is nothing to identify this particular bishop, whose features are carved in an unusually naturalistic manner, but he probably represents one of the many sainted bishops.

A.194-1946