Oak relief of Saint Longinus and the Virgin

Flemish, early 16th century.

Measures 35 x 35 x 12cm.

The two figures set in a rocky alcove, the Virgin swooning to the left of Longinus embarking on the act of piercing the side of the crucified Christ with his spear (now missing).

The relief would originally have been an element of a crucifixion altarpiece, the two figures set at the base of Golgotha.

Saint Longinus was the Roman Centurion who pierced Christs side with his spear to ease the Lords suffering and hasten his death. This act is said to have created the last of the Five Holy Wounds of Christ. Longinus is considered as one of the first Christians and Roman converts.