This is a wooden misericord with elaborate carving depicting the story of the Annunciation, when the kneeling angel Gabriel announces to Mary that she will become the mother of Jesus. A vase of lilies between them, now partly broken away, marks her purity and both figures are surrounded by a scroll, probably originally painted with an inscription. Although the Annunciation is celebrated in March, the birth of Marys son 9 months later is Christmas. Misericords, sometimes also known as mercy seats, can be found on the underside of a folding seat in many churches and cathedrals. They were there to offer a small shelf-like support for those having to stand during long services. They were often carved with various motifs and this particular misericord offered hope not only for your body but also for better days ahead!

The minimum donation to become a Gold Adopter of this object is £450. After clicking 'Donate', please enter this amount before continuing. Donations under the suggested amount will still count towards our target but will be considered a donation rather than an adoption.

Once you have made payment there will be an option to tick a box 'I'm happy to be contacted by Norfolk Museums Development Foundation to hear more about the impact of my donation, its appeals, events and other ways to donate, by email and post.'

If you do not click to accept further contact or send us your contact details we will be unable to send you your adopter pack. Please be assured that we will not send you further marketing materials unrelated to your adoption and you can opt out at any time.

If you have not heard from us within 2 weeks of adopting an object please e-mail keep.project@norfolk.gov.uk

All anonymous adopters must contact keep.project@norfolk.gov.uk to receive their adoption pack as your contact details are not forwarded to us.