Jesse

This relief shows Jesse, the ancestor of Christ, with a tree rising from his chest to represent his lineage. This image of him was used from the 12th century. It takes its form from the Old Testament Book of Isaiah (11:1-2): '...out of his roots a flower shall spring'. In earlier examples Jesse is shown lying down. Carvers regularly used the figure of Jesse in Antwerp altarpieces made from about 1500-1550. The Antwerp guild mark of a hand is stamped on the head of the figure of Jesse as a guarantee of good workmanship. He is normally shown in the sculpture on a raised shelf at the back of the altar. Or he appears in the main part of Marian or Passion altarpieces. He is often flanked by standing prophets holding scrolls. The Tree of Jesse, with more prophets or the kings of Judah, spreads into the frame of the compartment above.