MEMENTO MORI: it’s probably an über-niche interest, but part of me will always regret not taking the optional course at university on tomb sculpture, taught by Professor Julian Gardiner. At the time it seemed deadly dull (if you’ll excuse the pun), but rather like the Dutch Golden Age painting, which has grown on me over time, I wish I have become increasingly interested in tomb sculpture. All Saints Coleshill looks like a conventional Cotswolds church from the outside, but I was quietly thrilled to discover three impressive tombs to the Pleydell-Bouverie family inside. The star piece for me was carved by the great 18th century sculptor Michael Rysbrack and is a confection of skull, putti and low-relief medallion. There’s also an impressive Gothick tomb and one with two recumbent figures. Oddly none of these seem to get mentioned online. #sculpture #michaelrysbrack #tombsculpture #coleshill #skull #mementomori (at Coleshill Estate) https://www.instagram.com/p/CRt85wEltpq/?utm_medium=tumblr
