Description
The conversion of St. Eustace was a theme that was often pictured in Northern France during the Medieval period.
Placidus, a Roman general, was hunting when he encountered a white stag with a crucifix between its antlers. He heard the voice of Jesus asking why Placidus persecuted Him. The general was converted, took the name Eustace, and was later martyred along with his family. For more details about the life and worship of this saint, click to read the descriptions of Jameson and Baring-Gould.
On the left side of the capital, Placidus rides his horse and blows his hunting horn. only partially visible in this version) On the right side of the capital the dog confronts the stag with the crucifix between its horns. The dog rears up on its hind legs, straining at collar tied to a rope that is held by Placidus. To the extreme right is the stag, whose body is facing right, but whose head is turned to confront Placidus and the dog. The cross and its horns have been broken off.
In the background these are tree-like shapes and vines containing grapes.
Salet: Number 17
Location: South side of nave. West side of third arcade pillar from the west
