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15^th century medieval elm figure of Saint Fiacre

A rare 15^th century medieval elm carved figure of Saint Fiacre, the Irish priest, abbot, hermit and gardener of the 7^th century sold, sold at Woolley and Wallis today for £15,750 – 10 times its auction estimate of £1,000-£1,500.

Saint Fiacre is believed to be the patron saint of gardening and gardeners due to his skills in cultivating plants. He was born into an aristocratic family in 7^th century Ireland and died c670. He dedicated his life to religion and became a monk. He developed the ability to make plants grow with ease and is also believed to have learned the healing powers associated with herbs.

Legend has it that Saint Fiacre had a vision telling him to go to France where he founded a small monastery in the Diocese of Meaux, which became a sanctuary of healing and retreat. His garden was filled with medicinal plants and flowers renowned for their healing powers. The carved figure stands at 83cm tall and presents him wearing a hood over his habit, holding a bible and spade. It was offered in The Howard Collection of Oak and Works of Art.