Single Leaf from a "Biblia Pauperum": Christ Crowned with Thorns (recto) Christ Carrying the Cross (verso)
Unknown Artist
c. 1410
Medium
ink and tempera on vellum
Dimensions
19.8 × 14.2 cm
Classification
Manuscript
Department
Medieval Art
Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Credit
Gift in honor of William M. Milliken from members of his staff, 1919-1958
Accession Number
1958.255
About this artwork
Also known as the "Poor Men's Bible," the Biblia Pauperum was a simple picture book used to explain biblical prophecies and symbolism. These volumes served as an aid for preachers to demonstrate the unity of the Bible. The iconography of these popular books juxtaposed two Old Testament scenes with one from the life of Christ. In this example, the image of Christ crowned with thorns on one side and Christ carrying the cross between Abraham and Isaac on the way to sacrifice (on the left) and Elija...