The History and Antiquities of London, Westminster, Southwark, and Parts Adjacent, vol. 4
Allen, Thomas
1827
Henry the Third's Monument.
Is another effort of the skill of Cavalini, or some of his pupils. It is placed between the and pillars on the north side of the chapel, and is of exquisite workmanship and materials. It was originally extremely splendid; but is now mutilated, and most infamously destroyed, by the custom of breaking away the inlaid pieces of red glass, and white, gilt next the mortar with gold. The pannels are of polished porphyry, which have or cracks, and a small piece broken off the west corner of that inside the chapel, otherwise perfect, the Mosaic work round them of gold and scarlet. The table of brass on which the effigy lies, which is nearly as perfect as when made, except that the rich gilding is covered with dust, was supported by twisted pillars at the corners; but now, except at the N. W. corner, of the pillars are gone. | |
The effigies of Henry III. which is of a sufficient height from the floor, and of a size and materials to resist attack, is still perfect. It is of gilt brass, and is finely executed. | |
That part of the tomb next the north aisle within reach has shared the same fate as the rest; but towards the top, much of it is perfect. lozenges of verd antique, and a square of porphyry, are left on the side. The paint on the wooden canopy is nearly blistered off. | |
The king is arrayed in a long mantle reaching to the feet, and fastened across the breast with ajewel, on the head is a coronet with fleur de lis; from which the hair descends in large curls. On the ledge is the following inscription:--
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63 | |
Against the main column, at the foot of Henry's monument, is a small altar tomb of black and grey marble, to the memory of Elizabeth, daughter of Henry the and Elizabeth his wife, who died at Eltham palace, . | |
Footnotes: [] Dart. tab. 85. vol. ii. See also Sandford's Genealogies, 92; and Gough's Sepulchral Mon. i. p. 57, tab. xx. xxi. [] Supposed to have been the first brazen statue cast in this kingdom. H. Walpole. |