I have read somewhere that these monuments with emaciated figures were
erected during the lifetime of the individual as an act of humiliation,
and to remind himself as well as others of mortality and the instability
of human grandeur. If this cannot be disproved by facts, it affords a
satisfactory solution. There is a small chapel connected with Bishop
Fleming's in Lincoln Minster, and with others, where masses were said
for the repose of their souls; so it is probable that these were at
least designed during their lives, which would manifest their humility.