Davallament de Sant Joan de les Abadesses, منحوتة
The Davallament de Sant Joan de les Abadesses is a wooden sculpture from 1251 showing the moment when Jesus is taken down from the cross. Seven life-sized figures are carved with careful detail, including Jesus at the center, Mary and John on either side, and the men who helped remove him.
The sculpture was created around 1251 and later consecrated with relics placed on the head and shoulders of Christ's figure. The name Santissim Misteri became popular in 1426 after bread was discovered inside an opening in Christ's head.
This sculpture has been a center of local devotion for centuries, drawing people to pray before it during medieval festivals and religious celebrations. The wooden figures remain deeply connected to the community's spiritual life and how faith has been expressed here through art.
The sculpture sits in its original location within the church apse and remains easily visible to visitors. The work has been carefully maintained so that the medieval carving details remain clear and distinct for viewing.
One unusual feature of this sculpture is the inclusion of the good thief figure at the side of Jesus. This is rare for this type of work in the region, as thieves are not normally included in descent scenes.
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