The Pembridge helm is said to have belonged to Sir Richard Pembridge, an illustrious
member of the Pembridge family associated with Clehonger and Pembridge Castle
in Welsh Newton. Sir Richard fought alongside the Black Prince at Poitiers in
1356 and received many royal appointments and favours. He was also created Knight
of the Garter. In 1371 he was made chamberlain of the royal household, but fell
out of favour with Edward III when he refused to accept the office of Lieutenant/Deputy
in Ireland. Many of his offices and lands were confiscated.
The 19th century antiquarian, the Rev. Charles J.Robinson, stated
that Sir Richard Pembridge had been buried in Blackfriars Monastery, but when
this building was demolished during the dissolution, Richard's tomb was moved
to Hereford Cathedral. The cathedral librarian, Ms Joan Williams, however, refutes
this version, pointing out that Sir Richard Pembridge was buried in the Cathedral
from the outset. There is documentary evidence that someone applied to the cathedral
authorities to be buried in the cathedral next to the tomb of Richard Pembridge,
not long after Sir Richard's death.
Ms Williams also informs us that the nickname of the effigy of Sir Richard
is "the man with four legs". This appellation came about because one of his
legs was damaged during the Civil War. This leg was replaced by a wooden one
which in turn was replaced by a marble one in the 19th century, hence
four legs! I am told the wooden one still exists.
Third
quarter of 14th century, probably English.