Saint Melangell of Wales

Catholic icon of Saint Melangell of Wales on thick plywood 20mm, which does not sting and keeps its shape over time. Preparation with acrylic stucco and have been used acrylic colors. It has been covered with varnish to keep the colors undiluted in time and humidity. Hanging clip included on the back of the icon. 

St. Melangell was an early British saint who lived as a hermit in the remote valley of Pennant Melangell, Powys, north Wales. She lived in the 7th century, an Irish princess who sought out the seclusion of an uninhabited valley on the edge of what is now Snowdonia, sleeping in a cave with only the local wildlife for company. When a local prince came into the valley on a hunt, a hare ran to her for protection as she prayed in a thicket of brambles. The huntsman found himself miraculously unable to sound his horn, and the dogs were unable to go in for the kill. The Prince was so impressed with her sanctity and determination that he donated a parcel of land on which she would found her monastery. This monastery became a refuge not only for animals, but for all people who came to Melangell to be comforted by her words. Saint Melangell lived for almost forty years in her monastery guiding and counselling all who came to her. During her life, no animal was ever killed on her land, and for centuries after, those who live in the area do not dare to hurt any hares as they are regarded to be protected by the Saint. Saint Melangell is considered the Patron Saint of hares and other small animals. Her feast day is on May 27.