(Vol. v., p. 415.)
Having visited the interesting city of Antwerp in the autumn of 1846, I can
answer the Query of your correspondent C. E. D. from personal inspection.
The monument to Mary Queen of Scots is still in existence; and consists of
a richly ornamented slab, placed at a considerable height from the
pavement, against a pillar in (I think) the southern transept of the church
of St. Andrew. I was told on the spot that it was erected by two English
ladies, but my informant was silent as to the tradition respecting the
head. In the centre of the carvings which adorn the upper part of the
monument, is inserted a medallion portrait of the beautiful but unfortunate
queen; it is extremely well painted, and represents her in that peculiar
costume so familiar to those acquainted with her accustomed style of dress.
I inclose a copy of the inscription:--
"MARIA STUARTA,
Scot. et Gall. Reg.
Jacob. Magn. Britan. Reg. Mater.
Anno 1568, in. Angl. Refugii causâ descendens.
Cogna. Elisab. ibi regnavit.
Perfidiâ senat. et Hæret. post xix. Captivit. Annos.
Relig. ergo. cap. obtrunc.
Martyrium consumavit. Anno D. N. 1587.
Æta. Regy. 45."
The wood-carvings, with which this church abounds (especially those of the
pulpit and its accessories), are marvellous efforts of Art.