St Margaret and the Dragon

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The statue originated from the parish church of St Germain near Troyes. It is a quintessential example of outstanding sculpture created in Troyes during the early sixteenth century. Saint Margaret is depicted with her emblem, a dragon. Expectant mothers called upon her to safeguard them throughout childbirth due to her miraculous escape from a dragon's belly. The saint stands with her hands clasped together in prayer before her. Between her feet facing left lies a winged dragon biting at her robe. Noteworthy are the intricately carved flower bandeau binding her hair, which falls in flowing curls over her shoulder. Gallery location: Medieval & Renaissance art is on display in Room 50b of The Paul and Jill Ruddock Gallery, case FSC. This exhibit is courtesy of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.