Double-Sided Processional Cross Master of Monte del Lago (Italian, School of Umbria, second quarter 14th century). Double-Sided Processional Cross, 2nd quarter of the 14th century. Tempera and gold on panel, 39 1/16 x 16 9/16 x 4 5/8 in. ( x x cm). Both sides of this crucifix show the bleeding Christ on the cross. One side depicts him, alive, with his left eye open and Mary Magdalene at his feet. The other side portrays him after death, with both eyes closed, with a pelican above to symbolize his Resurrection. Originally, this crucifix was likely attached to a pole and carried i

Double-Sided Processional Cross Master of Monte del Lago (Italian, School of Umbria, second quarter 14th century). Double-Sided Processional Cross, 2nd quarter of the 14th century. Tempera and gold on panel, 39 1/16 x 16 9/16 x 4 5/8 in. ( x x cm). Both sides of this crucifix show the bleeding Christ on the cross. One side depicts him, alive, with his left eye open and Mary Magdalene at his feet. The other side portrays him after death, with both eyes closed, with a pelican above to symbolize his Resurrection. Originally, this crucifix was likely attached to a pole and carried in processions among the faithful, allowing them to sequentially experience both moments in the narrative. Ethiopian Christians came to Italy in the early 1300s to forge anti-Muslim alliances with Europe. By the early 1400s, Ethiopian monks lived in Rome and other regions of Italy. They would have seen objects such as this, which evoked their own processional crosses, like those on view nearby. European Art 2nd quarter of the 14th century

How we Work

Contribute

Legal

Contact Us