19th Century Gothic Revival Carved Oak Sculpture of a Mythological St George & the Dragon

£945.00
sold out

Rare and unusual 19th century Gothic Medieval Revival carved oak roundel or boss, depicting a half-man half-Lion Centaur or Manticore fighting a Dragon.

The half-man figure is piercing the Dragon with a spear whilst the Dragon is bitting the mans head, and the end of it’s tail seems to be snake head bitting the mans wrist.

The circular design of the bitting dragon and snake evokes the ouroboros - a symbol for eternal cyclic renewal or a cycle of life, death and rebirth, and also a fertility symbol.

However, the sculpture mostly seems to represent the good vs evil struggle of St George slaying the Dragon in medieval Christian iconography, or Cadmus slaying the Dragon from Greek mythology.

The sculpture is possibly based on a stone roof boss from Westminster Abbey circa 1250.

Interestingly, there is an inscribed symbol found at the bottom of the carving, which seems to be a apotropaic, or ritual protection marking. These marks were historically made to protect a building and its inhabitants from evil spirits and usually date from 1550 to 1750. 

The sculpture is in the 16th century style, but is likely from the 19th century Gothic Revival period (although could be older).

Very finely carved, with great detail and in high relief. Excellent condition.

Probably English or German.

Displays attractively as a wall mount (there is a hanging bracket) or on a stand.

Height & Width: 35cm / Depth: 5cm.

Price includes shipping.

Rare and unusual 19th century Gothic Medieval Revival carved oak roundel or boss, depicting a half-man half-Lion Centaur or Manticore fighting a Dragon.

The half-man figure is piercing the Dragon with a spear whilst the Dragon is bitting the mans head, and the end of it’s tail seems to be snake head bitting the mans wrist.

The circular design of the bitting dragon and snake evokes the ouroboros - a symbol for eternal cyclic renewal or a cycle of life, death and rebirth, and also a fertility symbol.

However, the sculpture mostly seems to represent the good vs evil struggle of St George slaying the Dragon in medieval Christian iconography, or Cadmus slaying the Dragon from Greek mythology.

The sculpture is possibly based on a stone roof boss from Westminster Abbey circa 1250.

Interestingly, there is an inscribed symbol found at the bottom of the carving, which seems to be a apotropaic, or ritual protection marking. These marks were historically made to protect a building and its inhabitants from evil spirits and usually date from 1550 to 1750. 

The sculpture is in the 16th century style, but is likely from the 19th century Gothic Revival period (although could be older).

Very finely carved, with great detail and in high relief. Excellent condition.

Probably English or German.

Displays attractively as a wall mount (there is a hanging bracket) or on a stand.

Height & Width: 35cm / Depth: 5cm.

Price includes shipping.

SHIPPING:

Purchase price does not include shipping. All items are shipped fully insured from our London SE18 address. Or collection is possible most days by appointment.

We will package small to medium items for shipping, or box or wrap larger items sent by courier, at no charge. If a larger item requires to be sent in a crate that will be part of the shipping cost. 

Customer to pay for shipping / courier & insurance after purchase - cost depends on item and destination. 

The customer will also have to pay any import taxes & duties directly to the authority depending on the destination countries policy. 

Small to medium items that aren't fragile can be sent via Fedex to UK, EU and Rest of World. We would recommend sending any larger fragile or large items by courier vans to UK addresses. We have also used reliable and affordable couriers for such items to West & Central EU. Large and fragile items can also be sent crated via shipping companies.

We can offer advice and a close estimated quote in advance of purchase, and advise on the most cost effective but safe options..

We can also advise on import VAT charges to the EU (antiques and works of art over 100 years old are charged at a lower % tax to EU countries, usually around 5.5%). 

As of late 2025 the USA now charges a 10% tarif, despite antiques of over 100 years old having zero tarif-line duty. Tarifs will also vary depending on an items country of manufacture. There may also be a US customs processing & clearance fee. We will work with you to provide the correct commodity code and paperwork to minimise any such tarif/fees as much as possible.

Most items are antique and fragile and some wear should be expected. Condition will be accurately reported in item descriptions 

Items are honestly & accurately described with clear photos. All sales are final, with no returns (unless misrepresented in the listing - any issues to be confirmed within one week of delivery).

Please email with any questions.