The Lamentation

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The long horizontal format of this tapestry suggests that it was originally conceived for a church altar. It presents Jesus’ followers gathered around his body, a subject especially appropriate for an altar. The figures – men and women, old and young – are remarkable for their individuality. They press closely against the picture plane. Mary cradles her son gently in her arms, while John the Evangelist, the young man with golden locks behind Jesus, reaches up to touch her forehead, trying to comfort her. Mary Magdalene, grieving over the body, clasps her hands together as she kneels by Jesus’ feet. The colors throughout this tapestry, which range from pastel to intense tones, are still rich and bright.

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