Studies for the statue

These texts were written by Philip Chatfield in preparation for carving.

Drawing showing the back of the statue of the Virgin of Tintern.

The tool marks made by the original sculptor are clearly visible on the rough hewn flat area. The level of detail seen from the back view clearly indicates that the statue was designed to be seen from three sides. It may have been placed in a simple niche or against a wall in the Lady Chapel of the Abbey.

Drawing showing the right side of the statue of the Virgin of Tintern.

The depth of the carving design can be seen along with the impressive forward arc of the composition. Visible still is the high waist band and right elbow position, and her right foot. Missing is her right hand, head and shoulders and the Christ Child plus the upper front folds of the cloak. The integral plinth is clear to see.

Drawing showing the front of the statue of the Virgin of Tintern.

The folds of the statue have lost their definition in many areas but the lower folds are still intact and very well carved. The left pointed shoe of Mary is visible. Also clear is her high waist band and fingers of her left hand supporting the remains of the bottom of the Christ Child. Mary's right arm is defined but the area of the right hand, being smashed-off, is eroded. Just visible is the right arm of the Christ Child leading across the upper chest of Mary. Faintly visible is the right foot of the Christ Child. The integral plinth is clear to see.

Drawing showing the left side of the statue of the Virgin of Tintern.

This side is remarkably intact and reveals the quality of the carving done by our late thirteenth century sculptor. The folds have retained their original sharpness and display sensitive carving suited to the sandstone. The cloak is gathered up into two small scrolls clutched by Mary's arm. Her left hand is clearly visible supporting the bottom of the Christ Child. Visible is her elbow and folds of her cloak over her arm.