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St. Michel d'Aiguilhe: Portal Reliefs

Portal Reliefs

The fascinating facade of the chapel dates from the 12th century. Like Le Puy Cathedral, its multicolor stonework and arches give it an exotic appearance revealing Islamic influences. The stonework of the facade illustrates themes from Genesis and Revelation. The reliefs within the unusual trefoil arch depict the Lamb of God (labeled with AGNUS DEI) in the center, with four Elders of the Apocalypse holding vials of perfume on each side. Above the arch are vines populated with birds and two human figures, which probably represents Creation and the Fall. Note the tiny Green Man masks beneath the feet of each human figure.

Credit: Holly Hayes