Images and Statues
Previous page: Interior of York Minster
Under the open gallery which runs below the upper windows, and exactly over the point of the arches on which the gallery is supported, formerly stood images of the saints of the different nations of Christendom. A number of these have been displaced. Among those which remain is that of St. George, against whose menacing sword the representation of a dragon, protruding from a neighbouring recess, seems to breathe defiance.
The magnificent screen which separates the nave from the choir is a rich and beautiful specimen of the florid style of architecture prevalent in the reign of Henry VI., and contains fifteen statues of the Kings of England, all ancient except one, and is 25 feet 8 inches in height.
The beautiful new choir, so called after it was restored, was opened in 1832. In architectural style it is a faithful representation of the ancient structures of the time of Edward III. Its separation into nine divisions - the central one forming on each side a small transept - renders its effect pleasing from its variety, while in beauty of design and wealth of decoration, its excellence is scarcely to be surpassed. It is 222 ft. in length.
The cathedral contains many interesting monuments of the earlier archbishops of the see, as well as monuments to William Wentworth, Earl of Strafford, Thomas Wentworth his nephew, William of Hatfield son of King Edward III. and many other persons of note.
