St George Slaying the Dragon

This 18th century gilt wood statuette depicts the moment in the story of St George where he slays the dragon that has been terrorising the citizens of Silene. St George is sat atop a rearing horse, whose flared nostrils and bulging eyes create a sense of animalistic panic. Despite the panic of his steed, the expression of St George is one of determination as he fights to retain control of his horse whilst plunging his spear towards the fearsome dragon below him. The dragon cowers away from the spear and St George's might, a single flame bursting from its mouth as a last attempt to defend itself from its obvious fate. All of these emotions are conveyed through the artist's exquisite carving, which renders each action and feeling in wonderful intricacy.

St George and the Dragon

In this famed story, the citizens of Silene lived peacefully until the arrival of a fierce dragon. The dragon had demanded human sacrifices from the city in return for safety from its wrath - one day, the Princess of Silene was chosen as one such sacrifice. St George encountered her on the way to sacrifice herself, and endeavoured successfully to save the Princess. St George killed the dragon after the royalty and citizens of Silene promised to convert to Christianity.

This version of the story was relayed in the Golden Legend narrative, which was the most popular version of the story in Western Europe. Published in the 13th century, the Golden Legend was popular within European courts, but soon became universally popular as a subject for literature and art. The popularity of the story of St George led to his name being invoked by the English military in medieval battles to boost morale and emulate his courage, which in turn led to St George becoming the patron saint of England.