Friday 14 October 2011

Saint Denis 9


(Click to enlarge) The renaissance tombs of St Denis are quite elaborate structures and are believed to be based upon the funeray decorations with which the monarchs were honoured. In the example above the canopy over the tomb proper is surmounted by the king and queen shown kneeling at prie-dieux crowned in full costume. Underneath these figures and inside the architectural canopy they are shown lying nude - although modestly draped and largely masked from view by virtue of their height and the architectural features. Nevertheless their bare feet are detailed with a remarkable and appealing realism- a striking reminder of the common humanity under the trppings of royalty.

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