It is said that it was Isabel, Countess of Pembroke, who was responsible for the building of the church of St. Mary’s, New Ross. Positioned high above the town, and of unusually large dimensions, it was the grandest of the early Irish gothic churches. Its cathedral-like presence reflected the level of importance attached to the town itself.

In the panel, William Marshal can be seen, mounted and perusing some draft drawings, aided by a scholastic monk. Artisans and stone carvers are working on the dogtooth decorations and disembodied heads for the church interior. Isabel leans over a mapping table, but towering above the busy scene is the spirit of Dermot who says “I did this”.