Triptych of the Descent from the Cross

The Descent from the Cross Triptych, executed by Ambrosius Benson between 1532 and 1536, is one of his largest and most monumental works in terms of both size and quality. In the top part of the painting, a choir of angels weeps over the lifeless body of Christ as it is taken down from the cross. Surrounding this scene are the Virgin Mary fainting in the arms of Saint John and Mary Magdalene. This Flemish-style painting displays great dynamism, capturing the sorrow and despair of Jesus's loved ones during his final hours. In the left doorway, on both sides, the Archangel Saint Michael stands as the defender of good against evil. On the right is the figure of Saint Anthony of Padua, a Franciscan saint.