Personal possessions hold great importance in exploring life on the Mary Rose. We can use them to learn more about the people who owned them, their beliefs and roles. The bone angel carving is a key example of how we can construct this picture, allowing for varied interpretations.
The bone angel carving (81A2851) which was excavated 8th September 1981
In 1981, excavations of the Mary Rose led to the discovery of a bone angel carving (81A2851) inside a chest on the main deck. The carving depicts two angels walking in procession in front of a building with a shuttered window, each carrying a large candle. The style of dress worn by the angels and the setting they are placed against provides similarities to artwork of 15th century Northern Italy, and because of this it is believed that the panel may be the work of the Embriachi workshop. This workshop operated throughout Northern Italy in the late 14th and early 15th centuries and was known for using bone and ivory panels in their work. Based on the size, form and religious focus of the panel, it is believed that it is probably a panel from a casket or altarpiece they created. This then leads to questions surrounding why the item was brought on board and what it can tell us about life on the Mary Rose?
This image shows a forensic facial reconstruction of the Gentleman based on the multi-isotope analysis that was undertaken
To fully understand the importance of this panel we must first explore who it belonged to. The individual, whose remains were found behind the chest containing the panel, is referenced in the museum as the ‘Gentleman’ and is thought to be Italian. This is because within his personal possessions, he had both the panel and a Continental style lead token. This shows how personal belongings like the panel are important in aiding investigations into the crew members on board, helping to support the idea he was Italian. Furthermore, multi-isotope analysis of the Gentleman’s teeth also supports this, identifying him as being of Mediterranean coastal origin. Considering all the evidence that he may be Italian, it is possible the panel was meant to be kept as a reminder of his home. Based on how well-made the panel is, and its presence in a chest (which are mainly identified with crew of a higher rank), he could have also been an officer, showing the diverse lives on board.
This image is of the museum showcase displaying the Gentleman’s possessions, in which you can see the panel (item 10) and lead token (item 3)
The panel also holds an important function in exploring life on board, especially regarding religion. Considering the religious changes which marked this century, with the Reformation seeing the advent of Protestantism, it is interesting to see how private religion functioned and the type of practices that carried on. Considering that the owner was likely Italian, where there was a strong Counter-Reformation promoting Catholicism, this could also be a reason he may have brought the item, acting as a symbol of faith.
Another interpretation is that it could have been used as a talisman, believed to have special powers that could provide protection for its owner, which he may have wanted to have with him on his journey.
While we can never be truly certain of why the Gentleman chose to bring the carving on board, it is clearly a unique and important object which greatly impacts our understanding of life on the Mary Rose. This proves the importance of personal possessions and how they can affect and be applied to different interpretations.
