Description

Produced by Devon-based woodcarver William Barsley, this cast is a life-size replica of a passant guardant lion that can be seen on the 26 shields held by the oak-carved angels of Westminster Hall – the oldest building in the Palace of Westminster. 

The shield features the royal arms of Richard II (1377-1399), with the lion representing England in a design that also incorporates the fleur-de-lys of France (signifying the king's claim to the French throne). 

This cast has been made to the same size as the original carvings, giving an incredible sense of scale to the angels that bear them, and in turn, the wonder of medieval engineering that Westminster Hall's hammerbeam roof represents. 

In 2018-19 William was part of a team of historic woodcarvers tasked with restoring the original angels and their shields to their former glory, following in the footsteps of the medieval craftsmen who constructed the roof of the Hall in the 14th Century. 

His unique insight into their tools and methods, as well as some of the unseen details of each angel, is reflected in this exquisite collector's piece, one that bears the marks not only of William's chisel but of the grain in the wood captured during the mould-making process.

William's cast lion makes a beautiful gift for someone with an interest in history, a connection with Parliament, or just an appreciation of fine craftsmanship and rare talent. 

• Made in the UK
• Cast in resin
• 14cm x 26cm x 2cm
• 450g