ALTARPIECE OF THE HOLY BURIAL

STYLE 

In its current state, the relief presents a well-balanced triangular, symmetrical composition: an impression that missing complementary elements must surely have ratified, as may be judged from the holes seen to the rear of the panel that seem to indicate the presence of another figure located at the very apex of the composition and the exposed area with no polychrome decoration and another two similar areas, one to each side of the central group.

Regarding the facial characteristics of the figures, the serene countenances of Christ, Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus are in sharp contrast to the pain and anguish expressed in the faces of the Holy Virgin and a frowning St. John and, to a lesser degree, to the expressions of Mary Magdalene and the other Holy Women. Their postures are elegant and solemn, something to which the pleats and folds of garments contribute greatly and are particularly complex in the mantle worn by Mary. The completely natural treatment of the body of Christ is outstanding.