Predella

The predella (Italian for stage, kick) is a base or step on which an altarpiece stands.

In the visual arts is meant by the predella paintings or carvings below the altarpiece, directly above the cafeteria. The predella has often thematic reference to the scenes shown above; with a Passion cycle as the Entombment of Christ. Because of the proximity to the altar table ( and because of the broad, low aspect ratio ) and the representation of the Last Supper is a common Predellenmotiv. The predella was sometimes used as a reliquary.

In the Ulm School is almost regularly in the predella Christ with cross nimbus - and surrounded by the twelve disciples - depicted.

List of famous predellas

  • Duccio di Buoninsegna - the predella of his Maestà
  • Lorenzo Monaco - moments from the life of St. Benedict (ca. 1407-1409 )
  • Luca Signorelli - The Adoration of the Shepherds (1510-1515)
  • Matthias Grünewald - The Entombment of Christ
  • Otto Dix - The war, Galerie Neue Meister, Dresden
Isenheim Altarpiece Altar stone
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