The Nativity, the Adoration of the Magi, the Crucifixion and the Coronation of the Virgin

1350

From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum

Medieval Religious Lamentation of Christ

Dominant colour

The Nativity, the Adoration of the Magi, the Crucifixion and the Coronation of the Virgin is a 1350 by Unknown, depicting Lamentation of Christ, held at Victoria and Albert Museum.

Who painted this?: Unknown
When & what style?: 1350
Where can I see it?: Victoria and Albert Museum

About this work

This painting shows four scenes from the life of Jesus and the Virgin Mary. It's made of ivory and is very small, like a book. The details are intricate, with many figures and symbols. This diptych is interesting because it was made to be held in one's hand. It was created in Paris, France, around 1340-1360. To learn more about similar small, detailed artworks, look up the technique of sfumato.

The story of this work

Overview

This ivory diptych, created in Paris around 1340–1370, features four carved scenes arranged in two panels, each topped by trefoil arches with crockets and finials. The narrative progresses from the Nativity with the Annunciation to the Shepherds at bottom left, to the Adoration of the Magi, the Crucifixion, and the Coronation of the Virgin at top right, with deep but partially unexcavated relief carving. In the Coronation scene, Christ and the Virgin are seated on a bench, with Christ holding a book and blessing, while angels kneel on either side holding censers; below, the infant Christ…

Read the full account in the museum source.