# The Executioner Malcus

The executioner, named Malcus in Wace's Life of Saint Margaret in verse, draws his sword to decapitate the saint.

Decapitation is often the final step in the martyrdom of saints. In the cloister, a column statue representing an executioner is recognizable. Perhaps it was part of a set with Olibrius and a now-missing statue of Saint Margaret, or it might have been associated with another figure of a saint martyr.

Executioner, inv. 2007.1.39
Photo © Musées de Châlons-en-Champagne, P. Martin

These figures of saints, who were able to suffer and die for their faith, like followers of Christ, held a value of exemplarity and devotion for the faithful.