Eligius

(or Eloi or Loy)

Feast Day: December 1

Patron Saint of horses, veterinarians, agricultural workers, metal smiths, mechanics, coin collectors, farmers, farriers, jewelers, jockeys, miners, minters, saddlers, taxi drivers, tool makers, watch makers, Royal Electrical & Mechanical Engineers

The symbolism and inspiration:

I've wanted to do a patron saint of horses for a long time, but found it difficult to combine jewelers with metalsmiths with veterinarians and a mechanical engineers. (Not to mention farmers and taxi drivers!)

Eligius is feeding apples to a horse. On the side is a replica of his actual signature. The bees and hive symbolize industry and the two thrones symbolize his integrity (referenced in his legend). There is also a gold coffer, a metal smith, and a coin minted at Limoges.

This is dedicated to my cousin Jake, one of the best people (and horsemen) I know. PB

(You might want to take a look at St. Eligius at Saints Preserved for Facts, Folklore, Freebies & More.)