In the context of Miniature altarpiece (WB.232), explore the Arcade and base of the Description.
The semi-circular mid-section arcade is encircled by closing doors, and depicts the Last Supper in full relief. Each bearded disciple is only 1.6 cm (0.63 inches) high, but given individual facial features, a food plate and wine flask. Judas Iscariot is the only attendee not at Jesus's side of the table, and instead sits with his back from the viewer. On either side of the panel are recumbent lions holding blank shield's, and two pairs of wrestling cherubs design in a Renaissance. According to art historian Dora Thornton, the cherubs are "a curious blend with the late Gothic manner of the overall composition". Below that again is the first of two structural bases containing recumbent, chained lions. A shield with a crest and heraldic mantling is positioned between them.
Last Supper Renaissance cherub disciple heraldic mantling Judas Iscariot relief Gothic