Young Michael is depicted on the monument as a scholar, surrounded by his books on a little table; he leans on a skull, his chin propped on his hand, in contemplation of a volume he holds on his knee, or possibly of mortality. He is soberly dressed in black, with a doublet or jacket with slashed sleeves and a robe or cloak flowing to the floor, boots and a wide white puritan-style collar.

According to the conservators, the monument is “a highly individual and interesting example of an aedicule-style wall plaque, with a characterful figure depicted in the midst of contemplation and study; in design it resembles the well- known monument of Sherland Short - another scholar, though a youth, in Newton St Cyres church, near Exeter. Artistically speaking, the monument is both individual and finely wrought. The figure of the deceased Michael Hill has a rare intimacy and character in his melancholic pose, surrounded by his books, whilst the inscription is simultaneously charming and heartfelt. The survival of much of the original paint layer without any significant overpainting is remarkable and enhances the interest of the monument considerably.”

Torquil and Ruth carefully recorded every part of the monument before dismantling it into about forty pieces for transport to their workshop.  We anticipate that it will be returned to the church during 2022, once roof repairs and other work on the Manaton chapel have been completed.

We are very grateful to Church Care and a descendant of the Manaton family for generously funding the work.