Martyrdom of Thomas Becket

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Thomas Becket, archbishop of Canterbury from 1162 to 1170, is perhaps best known for his struggles with King Henry II of England over the separation between the church and the monarchy. He was killed by four knights of Henry’s court in Canterbury Cathedral at twilight on December 29, 1170, the scene depicted here. This delicate carving also shows his soul, borne between two angels, receiving God’s blessing.

Medieval Art and The Cloisters

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Museum's collection of medieval and Byzantine art is among the most comprehensive in the world. Displayed in both The Met Fifth Avenue and in the Museum's branch in northern Manhattan, The Met Cloisters, the collection encompasses the art of the Mediterranean and Europe from the fall of Rome in the fourth century to the beginning of the Renaissance in the early sixteenth century. It also includes pre-medieval European works of art created during the Bronze Age and early Iron Age.

Metropolitan Museum of Art