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Head of Christ

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 601

This hypnotic panel, with its original frame, shows two angels holding the cloth on which Christ’s face was miraculously imprinted when Veronica wiped his brow on his way to his crucifixion. For centuries the portrait, indeed self-portrait, that resulted was understood as the true likeness of Christ. The miraculous picture, not made by human hands, became a foundational image for European artists. The inscription on Christ’s collar from John 14:27, "My peace I give unto you," suggests that this precious painting may have been used during the celebration of Mass as a pax to pass the kiss of peace.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Head of Christ
  • Artist: Master of the Orcagnesque Misericordia (Italian, Florence, active second half 14th century)
  • Medium: Tempera on wood, gold ground
  • Dimensions: Overall, with engaged frame, 11 5/8 x 8 1/8 in. (29.5 x 20.6 cm); painted surface 9 5/8 x 6 1/8 in. (24.4 x 15.6 cm)
  • Classification: Paintings
  • Credit Line: Gift of The Jack and Belle Linsky Foundation, 1981
  • Object Number: 1981.365.2
  • Curatorial Department: European Paintings

More Artwork

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The Vision of Saint Catherine of Alexandria, Master of the Orcagnesque Misericordia Italian, Tempera on wood, gold ground, Italian, Florence
The Vision of Saint Catherine of Alexandria
Master of the Orcagnesque Misericordia
second half 14th century
Crucifix, Master of the Orcagnesque Misericordia Italian, Tempera on wood, gold ground
Crucifix
Master of the Orcagnesque Misericordia
1370–75
Madonna and Child, Berlinghiero Italian, Tempera on wood, gold ground
Madonna and Child
Berlinghiero
possibly 1230s
The Adoration of the Magi, Giotto di Bondone Italian, Tempera on wood, gold ground
The Adoration of the Magi
Giotto di Bondone
possibly ca. 1320
Madonna and Child, Duccio di Buoninsegna Italian, Tempera and gold on wood
Madonna and Child
Duccio di Buoninsegna
ca. 1290–1300

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