European Decorative Arts and Sculpture The Tree of Jesse: The Maternal Ancestors of Jesus, with the Virgin and Child in the Upper Branches Made in Nottingham, England, Europe15th century Artist/maker unknown, English Alabaster with paint and gilding * Gallery 202, European Art 1100-1500, second floor 1945-25-108 Purchased with Museum funds from the George Grey Barnard Collection, 1945 |
LabelNottingham alabasters often appeared in sets with an established theme and, much like painted altarpieces, were frequently used to decorate the backs of altars. Few groups, however, remain intact and in their original locations. This example depicts the popular subject of the life of the Virgin Mary. Such altarpieces were exported to a number of Western European countries.* Works in the collection are moved off view for many different reasons. Although gallery locations on the website are updated regularly, there is no guarantee that this object will be on display on the day of your visit. |
