Sepulchral Monument of Ermengol VII, Count of Urgell

Date:
ca. 1300–1350
Geography:
Made in Lerida, Catalonia, Spain
Culture:
Catalan
Medium:
Limestone, traces of paint
Dimensions:
Overall: 89 x 79 1/2 x 35 in. (226.1 x 201.9 x 88.9 cm)
Classification:
Sculpture
Credit Line:
The Cloisters Collection,1928
Accession Number:
28.95a–xx
  • Description

    This elaborate structure, supported by three stone lions, is the sepulchral monument traditionally associated with Ermengol VII, count of Urgell. The various styles and disparate dimensions of the individual parts of the tomb suggest that it was assembled from elements originally intended for several different monuments. The effigy itself shows the count resting his head on two tasseled cushions, with his eyes closed and his hands crossed above a sheathed sword. A group of mourners, now damaged, is carved into the same slab, just behind the effigy. Below is a carved panel showing Christ in Majesty, at center, accompanied by the Twelve Apostles, all standing under traceried arches. A separate relief above the effigy shows a funeral rite, with three celebrants, at center, standing beneath pointed arches. At the top, on a much smaller rectangular panel, are angels transporting a soul to heaven.

  • Signatures, Inscriptions, and Markings

    Marking: Arms: (on four corners of pillow): chequy, or and sable (on rear edge of sarcophagus): on a hillock, lozengy argent and gules, surmounted by a fleur-de-lis and enclosed in two concentric circles

  • Provenance

    From the Premonstratensian monastery of Santa María de Bellpuig de les Avellanes, Spain

    [ Georges J. Demotte 1877 - 1923 , Paris and New York (sold 1928)] ; George Blumenthal , Paris and New York (in 1928 for John. D. Rockefeller Jr.) ; John D. Rockefeller Jr. , New York (1928)

  • See also
    What
    Where
    When
    In the Museum
    Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History
    MetPublications
70013099

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