Textile: Three Crosses

Work Number: 580268
Title: Textile: Three Crosses
Description: Oval shaped decafoil pattern embroidery.

Image 1: Framed at the center of the textile is a scene of the Baptism of Christ. St. John the Baptist baptizes Christ in the River Jordan. An angel accompanies them. The Holy Spirit, in the form of a dove soars in from the top of the scene. Two cherub heads adorn the top and bottom of the baptismal narrative and two angels hold the oval shaped "frame" from each side. The work is highly ornamental, fit with swirling organic vine and plant motifs, and in-laid gems and beads (pearls?) serving as haloes.

Image 2: The framed central scene depicts three crosses, an allusion to both the Holy Trinity, and the two thieves crucified alongside Christ. The central and largest cross (the cross of Christ) bears three nails on the arms, one at proper right and two at proper left, and thorns along the cross' stem. Flanking the three crucifixes on the bottom left and right are cornucopias of fruits and vegetables, perhaps a symbol of abundance. The work is crowned by a dark red and whiteish tan colored flower in full bloom.
Medium: Textile
Subject: Angels; Cherub; Holy Trinity; Jesus Christ, Baptism
Provenance: Gallery, case 8