Capital - The Ascension

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The Ascension, a pivotal event occurring in Jerusalem, marks Christ's final appearance after his resurrection. Christ is depicted from the front, with arms outstretched as he rises into the sky, flanked by two angels who signal his presence to the apostles and the Virgin Mary. This iconic imagery diverges from what was previously found in the region, as evident on the typanum of the Miegeville portal of the Basilica of Saint-Sernin in Toulouse, where Jesus is shown in profile being borne away by angels. The Musée des Augustins' collection of Romanesque sculpture primarily consists of remnants from three significant religious structures in Toulouse: the Monastery of La Daurade, the Collegiate Church of Saint Sernin, and Saint Etienne Cathedral. The decision made by the clerics responsible for maintaining these buildings to live communally led to the construction of functional convent buildings, organized around large cloisters adorned with simple or elaborate sculpture. As a thriving economic, political, and religious hub in the 11th and 12th centuries, Toulouse enjoyed an environment conducive to the emergence of a unique art movement. The high quality, diversity, and enduring legacy of this movement solidify Toulouse's position among the leading centers of Romanesque art. Consequently, the works housed at the Musée des Augustins serve as essential milestones in the history of sculpture.