I took this shot because I was interested why the sculptor of such a figure should make it with no regard to gravity (neckless clothes etc.). Perhaps others may enlighten me on the religious or artistic reasons for this?
i've no idea about the answer to your question, but i'm really digg'n the photo. lovely play of light and shadow, with the figure adding another dimension altogether. bravo!
I noticed the same when I visited Westminster Abbey this summer in London. Kings and Queens lying on their backs like they were standing up. Guess it took a while to make things more naturalistic.