Bookbinding plate

Crucifixion, Holy Women at the Tomb, Ascension and Christ Blessing

Description

On display - room 2

11th century

Early Middle Ages

The scenes on this plate have incredible density: the composition is structured by a large cross, which depicts Christ dressed, according to rare iconography. The arms of the cross are extended with representations of the sun and moon in medallions. Below, on the left, the Virgin Mary and Saint John are present at the crucifixion. On the right, an angel welcomes the holy women at the tomb, announcing that Christ has risen.

Above the arms of the cross, the narrative continues on the right with the Ascension, marking the end of the earthly life of Christ, and on the left with the return of the reign of Christ, seated on a throne in a mandorla and surrounded by the symbols of the evangelists.
 

From one artwork to another

Chapiteau à décor d'acanthe, abbaye de Saint-Denis, Cl. 12114 a © GrandPalaisRmn / Michel Urtado

Chapiteaux à décor d'acanthe

Ve, VIe ou VIIe siècle