Saint John of the Descent from the Cross from Erill la Vall
This figure was part of a group of images making up a Descent from the Cross, which in Catalonia has the peculiarity that it is made up of seven characters. Two of the carvings are kept at the museum and the rest at the Museu Episcopal de Vic. In the centre was the figure of Jesus Christ held by Joseph of Arimathea and unnailed by Nicodemus, flanked by Mary and Saint John, on either side, and the thieves, Dismas and Gestas, at the ends. The subject of the Descent adds a more narrative and dramatic feel to the representation of the Passion of Christ, probably related to liturgical drama. The museum's collection preserves images from Descents from Santa Maria de Taüll and from Durro, both in the Vall de Boí.
Second half of 12th century
141 x 40 x 20.5 cm
Plandiura Collection, purchased 1932
003918-000