Capital - The Arrest of Jesus - Trial before Pilate - The Flagellation - The Road to Cavalry

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On this intricately carved triple-capital, multiple scenes unfold around varying bells with degrees of unity. On one side, Judas makes a dramatic entrance into the Garden of Gethsemane, closely followed by soldiers sent to arrest Christ, who is identified with a kiss. Nearby, the enraged disciple Peter takes a bold action, slicing the ear of Malcus, the high priest's servant. After an initial appearance before the Sanhedrin, Jesus is taken before Pontius Pilate, the Roman procurator in charge of Judea. Seated on a throne, Pilate endorses the death sentence handed down by the religious authorities - "Ecce Homo" - displayed prominently on two opposing bells. The scene of Flagellation swiftly ensues, where bound Jesus is whipped by two executioners. In accordance with Roman law, he then carries his cross to the site of his execution. The Musée des Augustins boasts an extensive collection of Romanesque sculpture, primarily comprised of remnants from Toulouse's three most significant religious structures: the Monastery of La Daurade, the Collegiate Church of Saint Sernin, and Saint Etienne Cathedral. The decision by the clerics responsible for maintaining these buildings to live communally led to the construction of functional convent buildings around large cloisters adorned with simple or elaborate sculptures. As the capital of a powerful county and a rapidly growing economic, political, and religious hub in the 11th and 12th centuries, Toulouse enjoyed a highly favorable context that nurtured an original art movement. The quality, diversity, and enduring longevity of this movement solidify Toulouse's place among the major centers of Romanesque art. Consequently, the works in the Musée des Augustins serve as pivotal milestones in the history of sculpture.