Altar Cross

Photo © Martin Crampin, Imaging the Bible in Wales Upper part of the cross showing the head of Christ and the Agnus Dei. larger image

Crucified Christ with the symbols of the four evangelists on each arm of the cross. Agnus Dei behind the head of Christ. medium: metal size: 70 cm (height) [approx] Church of the Five Saints, Llanpumsaint, Carmarthenshire altar table, sanctuary The juxtaposition of the head of the dying Christ with the Agnus Dei symbol is theologically significant. The lamb stands for sacrifice, for redemption, and alludes to John 1:29. The lamb was thus adopted as a symbol for Christ in early iconography. Shown standing, with a gonfalon (as here) it can point forward to the coming Resurrection.  (ObjectID=710 ImageID=1330) Original File Name=_MG_2997.jpg

This artwork is indexed under the following main subject(s):
for other works containing these subjects please click on the links.

• Crucified Christ suffering (with crown of thorns)  [Matthew 27:33-58; Mark 15:22-45; Luke 23:33-52; John 19:17-38]
• lamb bearing cross or banner, 'Agnus Dei' - symbol of Christ 
• the four symbols of the evangelists, 'the apocalyptic beasts'  [Revelation 4:6-8]

Photo © Martin Crampin, Imaging the Bible in Wales