Detail of the Circumcision Stained Glass in the Cloisters, October 2010

The Circumcision

Date: ca. 1460–70

Geography: Made in Cologne, Germany

Culture: German

Medium: Pot metal glass and vitreous paint

Dimensions: Overall: 32 3/16 x 22 x 1/2 in. (81.8 x 55.9 x 1.3 cm)

Classification: Glass-Stained

Credit Line: Purchase, Bequest of Jane Hayward, by exchange, and The Cloisters Collection, 2003

Accession Number: 2003.14

Description: Made for the Kreuzbrüder ("Crutched Friars") in or near Cologne, this Circumcision scene is set in an architectural interior illuminated by blank glazings and paved with tiles of geometric ornament. A mitred high priest sitting on a throne supports the Christ child on his lap with a draped hand. Two male figures kneel before him. The elder -- bald, bearded and dressed in rich robes -- holds a knife in his right hand as he initiates the circumcision. His young assistant, graced with golden curls but more modestly attired, holds a broad metalwork charger. The glance and gesture of the Christ child identifies the standing female in a white wimple and robes of blue as his mother, the Virgin, who witnesses the event. The cool palette underscores the solemnity of the rite.

Text from: www.metmuseum.org/collection/the-collection-online/search/475385