Crusaders before Jerusalem
The Met
Artist: Wilhelm von Kaulbach(German, Arolsen 1804–1874 Munich)
Department: European Paintings
Classification: Paintings
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: 61 5/8 x 74 1/2 in. (156.5 x 189.2 cm)
Credit Line: Catharine Lorillard Wolfe Collection, Bequest of Catharine Lorillard Wolfe, 1887
Visual Descriptions
AI GeneratedVisual Summary
Brief Description
A luminous heavenly realm above an earthly scene with soldiers, a procession, and kneeling figures
Detailed Description
An arched frame encloses a multi-figure scene divided into two distinct horizontal realms. The upper realm is dominated by brilliant, golden-yellow light, from which several glowing figures emerge. A central, robed figure with outstretched arms is the brightest, surrounded by other figures, some standing, some kneeling, all appearing translucent against the intense light. Below this upper realm, the earthly realm unfolds with a complex array of figures and actions. In the center, on a slightly elevated, light-bathed mound, a procession of five figures in long white robes carries a golden, ornate reliquary or casket. To the left of this procession, a battle scene is depicted, with soldiers on horseback and on foot engaged in combat. One soldier on a white horse raises a sword over a figure on the ground, while another figure in white is being pulled or carried amidst the struggle. To the right, another group of soldiers on horseback, some with banners, appears to be observing or advancing. In the foreground, numerous figures are scattered across the uneven, earthy ground. Many are kneeling with arms outstretched towards the central light and procession, appearing to be in supplication. Others lie fallen, possibly dead or wounded, surrounded by discarded weapons and shields. The background of the earthly scene shows distant hills under a pale sky.
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