Description
A painted and gilded wooden angel holding a dark shield bearing a large bird with raised wings. This bird is unusual. Unlike the common medieval “Pelican in her Piety,” it shows no chicks or bleeding breast. Instead, it has a human face, and with its long neck and spread wings, it looks more like a swan. In the Swayne Chapel, this may have been a rebus, a pun on the family name “Swayne,” proclaiming their presence and patronage in the chapel. In medieval times punning symbols were often used for family names in coats of arms.
Condition
Restored in 2025,the figure and shield are clearly legible and appear substantially intact. The gilding and painted surfaces show visible wear, small losses and unevenness, particularly on the wings and robe. The facial features and the bird on the shield remain clear.