BRUSSELS, Belgium — The decorative frieze adorns the base of Godfrey of Bouillon's equestrian statue in Place Royale. Created by sculptor Eugene Simonis in 1848, the relief depicts historical scenes related to the First Crusade. The detailed bas-relief serves as part of the monument commemorating the medieval crusader leader who became the first ruler of Jerusalem.


Photograph by David Coleman. The ornate frieze on the pedestal of the Godfrey of Bouillon monument represents a significant example of 19th-century commemorative sculpture in Brussels. Created by Eugene Simonis in 1848, these bas-relief panels form part of the larger memorial to the First Crusade leader. The sculptural details illustrate scenes from Godfrey's life and his role in the First Crusade of 1096. The frieze exemplifies the Romantic period's interpretation of medieval history, characteristic of mid-19th century European monumental art. The pedestal's decoration reflects the period's historical revival style, combining medieval subject matter with 19th-century sculptural techniques. These relief panels demonstrate Simonis's attention to historical detail and his skill in narrative sculpture, providing viewers with a visual history of one of Belgium's most significant medieval figures.


Size: 6706px × 4476px
Location: Church of Saint Jacques-sur-Coudenberg, Brussels, Brussels Region, Belgium
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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