As we face the altar, the first window on the left, closest to the sanctuary, depicts Our Blessed Lord as ruler of the universe. He is holding an orb, symbol of rule of the world. Like the window of Mary across the nave, it follows a distinct design pattern. The central figure is framed by a series of rondels that alternate between grisaille portrayals of various events and gold-toned symbols appropriate to Our Lord and particularly to His Passion and death. The seven grisaille rondels are magnificent miniatures of the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary to which are added the Resurrection and the Ascension from the Glorious Mysteries.
The Portrait
In this portrait, typical of 19th century ecclesiastical art, Our Lord is garbed in colors different from the colors to which 20th and 21st century Catholics are accustomed. Here, He is shown wearing light blue robes accented with red. He is surrounded He is surrounded a frame of the same blue color.
The Rondels
Crucifixion – Matthew 27:32-56
Pliers and Hammer – These are the tools of the crucifixion They were used to hammer spikes into the hands and feet of Jesus and remove them after his death.
Thorns and Cross – The thorns of Christ’s crown surrounding the cross of crucifixion.
Crowning with Thorns – Matthew 27:27-31
Jesus and the Women of Jerusalem – Luke 23:27-31
Nails were used in execution by crucifixion. The nails fastened the hands and feet of the victim to the cross.
Dice were used by the soldiers to cast lots for the clothing of the crucified. Matthew 27:35 – “When they had crucified him, they parted his garments and cast lots.”
Jesus is Scourged at the pillar – John 19: 1-3
The Resurection – Luke 24:1-12
Ladder, Spear, Sponge – The ladder was used to lift the body to the cross. The spear was used by the centurion to pierce the side of Christ. The sponge was used to offer drugged wine to Jesus.
The Pillar and Whips – Before being led to crucifixion, Christ was tied to a pillar and scourged with whips.
The Agony in the Garden – Matthew 26:36-56: Luke 22:39-63
The Ascension of the Lord – Luke 24:51; Acts 1:1-9
As we face the altar, the first window on the left, closest to the sanctuary, depicts Our Blessed Lord as ruler of the universe. He is holding an orb, symbol of rule of the world. Like the window of Mary across the nave, it follows a distinct design pattern. The central figure is framed by a series of rondels that alternate between grisaille portrayals of various events and gold-toned symbols appropriate to Our Lord and particularly to His Passion and death. The seven grisaille rondels are magnificent miniatures of the Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary to which are added the Resurrection and the Ascension from the Glorious Mysteries.
In this portrait, typical of 19th century ecclesiastical art, Our Lord is garbed in colors different from the colors to which 20th and 21st century Catholics are accustomed. Here, He is shown wearing light blue robes accented with red. He is surrounded He is surrounded a frame of the same blue color.
