The following pictures are of two relief panels at the base of the remains of an octagonal washouse (lavatorium) in the cloister of the Cluniac priory of Wenlock in Shropshire. They deal with the theme of 'Christ Calling the Apostles'. These Romanesque sculptures date from 1079 and 1082, when the abbey was rebuilt on the site of an earlier 7th century foundation, by Roger de Montgomery. One panel shows two apostles standing beneath arches, the other has been interpreted as Christ sleeping in a boat on a lake (top) and Christ calling saints Andrew and Peter. Both panels are full of strength and character. They are carved out of local 'Wenlock marble'. The major share of architectural activity in the second part of the 11th century was sponsored by the great monastic communities. The Cluniac order, at the peak of its power, played a primary role in the patronage of construction. Thus a number of significant Cluniac churches connected with great 12th-century pilgrimages—St. Martin in Tours, St. Sernin in Toulouse, and Santiago de Compostela in Spain—show great similarity in plan and overall design. The Cuniac Order owed its allegience directly to the Abbey of Cluny in France. It is therefore likely that it was French masons who carried out the carvings.
Two Apostles: panel on north side of lavatorium
Head of apostle
Head of meditating apostle
http://redalyc.uaemex.mx/redalyc/pdf/361/36100801.pdf
Panel on east side of lavatorium
Gospel of St Mathew. 23. And when he had entered into the ship, his disciples followed him. 24. And, lo, there was a great swell in the sea, so that the ship was covered with the billows: and he was asleep. 25. And his disiples approached and awoke him, saying, Lord, save us, we perish. 26. And he saith to them, Why are you timid, O men of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea: and there was a great calm. 27. But the men wondered, saying, What sort of man is this: for the winds and the sea obey him?
Gospel of St Mathew. 4 As Jesus walked by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea - for they were fishermen. And he said to them, "Follow me, and I will make you fish for people." Immediately, they left their nets and followed him.
Sleeping Christ
The fisherman brothers, Andrew and Peter
Christ holding hand of St Peter
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