Can you tell me more about this?
This is a terrific example of portable art made to be carried to religious processions. The two scenes show the moments just before and after Christ's death. One side includes three images of Saint Dominic which suggests that this piece was made for a convent devoted to him.
Is this frame made of real gold?
It is wood that has been carved and gilded--covered in real gold leaf. The wood is first covered in a red clay-like material called bole with acts as an adhesive and makes the gold appear more warm. If you look closely, you may be able to see some of the red color showing through.
The frame is likely original and is very typical of Renaissance design. It closely resembles classical architecture that was being revived in the 15th century.
Tell me more.
This processional object shows Christ on the cross on one side and Saint Dominic with saints and nuns on the other. It was probably made for a convent devoted to Saint Dominic.
The double sided painting form was popular in the Marches, or the Adriatic Italian coast, in the 14th and 15th centuries. The cross nearby is also processional!
You may have noticed on the other side how saint Dominic opens his cloak to shield Dominican Nuns. This pose is also a common way of showing the Virgin Mary as the Virgin of Mercy.