Dominican Nun

This figure is one of a set of 50 dressed to represent the outfits worn by Catholic religious orders. They are made of tow (hemp) with wax heads, hands and feet. They were probably made in France, as they are labelled in French, but some of the orders represented were only active in Germany and the Netherlands.

This figure represents a Dominican nun. Founded in the early 1200s by St. Dominic (1170-1221) the order is still going strong today. Whilst Domincan nuns are an enclosed, contemplative order, the separate order of Domincan Sisters dedicates itself to community life, service, and education like the friars. The Domincan nun's habit is a white tunic, scapular, and wimple with a black veil and cloak.