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Shakespeare Connected - Discovering the Guild Chapel

Virtual reconstruction

Virtual reconstruction of the west end of the chapel (University of York, using SBT ER1/27)

“…………………………………fair Saint George

Inspire us with the spleen of fiery dragons” (Richard III, Act 5, Sc. 6)

This composite image provides a virtual reconstruction of the west end of the chapel using Fisher’s lithographs of 1804. Above the Allegory is the Martyrdom of St Thomas a Becket, whilst on the other side of the tower arch is St. George and below him, a possible depiction of either the Whore of Babylon, or the sin of Pride. Saints were powerful intercessors and images of them would have filled the chapel, in painted, carved and gilded form. They were a particular target for reformers. The Whore of Babylon draws on Apocalyptic texts. It is an unusual image but one which again provides a stern warning about the consequences of human sin!

 

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