1-155-913 - Art Media/Heritage Images

'The Deposition from the Cross', 1443-1445. The Virgin Mary, surrounded by supporters, cradles the body of Christ in her lap. The crown of thorns has fallen from his head and lies on the ground (left). Cherubs carry away the cross, the sponge soaked in vinegar offered when he cried out in thirst, and the spear with which the Centurion pierced his side (top). A figure, possibly Joseph of Arimethea, clutches the nails with which Christ was crucified (centre right). Another figure holds a golden goblet, perhaps the Grail, at centre left. From the Musee des Beaux Arts, Besancon, France.