UNKNOWN MASTER, German
(active around 1220 century)

Triumphal Cross ensemble

c. 1220
Wood
Cathedral, Halberstadt

Of the numerous Triumphal Cross ensembles of the German Middle Ages, only a few survive. The one in Halberstadt Cathedral is both the earliest and the best.

This monumental group was made for the junction of nave and chancel. Christ is shown dead on the cross, at his feet lies Adam. The cross is flanked by the Virgin and St John as well as two cherubim, each with six wings, whose bodies are hollowed out. The cavities, closed by small doors at the back, probably once held relics.