By introducing the first signs of Manueline symbolism Diogo-Pires-o-Velho established the beginnings of a new language. This innovation appears in the arrangement of garments, with narrow pleats draped naturally and delicately over a still rigid anatomy. The most original traits are to be found on the head that possesses an individual character: the serious face, framed by the hair and a long, drooping beard, is defined by lightly undulating wrinkles, a thick neck, slanted eyes and a closed mouth. The figure holds an open book in his left hand, and in his right rests a cross in the form of an X - commonly known as the cross of St. Andrew - in a reference to his crucifixion.