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Photo: Bern Münster

Last Judgment Portal
Last Judgment Portal

15th-century tympanum of the Last Judgment at Bern Münster, with more than 200 carved wood and stone figures. Such a large collection of late Gothic sculpture is a rare survival in Europe, and especially in a Protestant country. Apparently the graphic depictions of salvation and damnation appealed enough to the Reformers to spare it from destruction. The 170 smaller figures are 15th-century originals; the 47 larger freestanding statues are replicas (originals in the Bern Historical Museum). Justice occupies the center, flanked by angels and the Wise and Foolish Virgins. Above is the Archangel Michael, with a sword and scales. The saved are on the left and the damned are on the right. Construction on Bern's cathedral began in 1421. It became a Protestant church after the city adopted the Reformation in 1528.

© Sacred Destinations
Date: 12/21/06 9:41 AM
File name: d80_a_039p.jpg


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