Statue to remember 13th century businesswoman

TWO LIBERAL Jewish Synagogue members are part of a bid to erect a statue of a prominent 13th century Jewish businesswoman and her son in the centre of Winchester.

Licoricia of Winchester was a pioneering figure who raised funds for royalty, as well as projects including the core of Westminster Abbey.

Winchester-based LJS members Maggie and William Carver are trustees of the project to fund a life-sized bronze statue. It would stand outside the Discovery Centre Library in Jewry Street, Winchester, near to where Licoricia lived.

Mr Carver hoped the statue would “not only educate about the important Jewish community in Winchester, and the rest of the UK, before the expulsion of 1290, but also inspire women and foster tolerance and diversity today”.

Following a competition, the commission for the work was awarded to Ian Rank-Broadley, one of the UK’s leading sculptors. There are no known illustrations of Licoricia so the artist has taken inspiration from his daughter and grandson, both of whom are Jewish.

The appeal’s target is £125,000. Around £78,000 will be for the statue, £20,000 for a plaque and plinth and the remainder for a booklet and other educational materials and events. Some £15,000 has already been raised locally.