Crucifixion flanked by Saints

Unknown

ca. 1270 (probably before 1272) · Silk · Medieval Art

English embroidery, or opus anglicanum (English work), was present across Europe. This small but fine panel, which likely decorated the front of a private altar, presents the Crucifixion of Jesus witnessed by Saint John, the Virgin, and saints James the Greater (with a satchel), Peter (with a key), Paul (with a sword), and Andrew (with an X-shaped cross). Reading from left to right, the coats of arms are those of Hastings, Fitz-Alan, England, Castile-Léon, DeClare, and DeVere. The placement of the arms of King Edward I (r. 1272–1307) and his queen, Eleanor of Castile, date the embroidery to between Edward’s ascension in 1272 and Eleanor’s death in 1290.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1270 (probably before 1272)

Medium

Silk

Culture

British

Department

Medieval Art

Credit line

Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917