Queen Matilda of Scotland statue c.1160*

3D Model

One of two now faceless statues inserted either side of the Great West Door around 10 years after its creation in c.1150. Once thought to depict the Queen of Sheba, it is now recognised that long braided hair is a characteristic feature of depictions of Anglo-Saxon women at this time. The Norman King Henry I attended the consecration of the cathedral in 1130. His first wife, Matilda of Scotland, possessed Anglo-Saxon royal blood. Queen Matilda was well regarded after her death and associated with supporting cloisters and infirmaries for leprosies. St Bartholomew’s hospital on the outskirts of Rochester was founded under Bishop Gundulf in 1078 for the care of the poor and lepers. This royal patronage reflected the new Norman England, a marriage of Norman control over Anglo-Saxon laws, and Matilda will have reinforced the image of the cathedral as a supporter of the sick.

*The object will be rephotographed with a scale.

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