Unknown Maker, French

The exteriors of many medieval churches were decorated with stone carvings. The central motif above the main portal was generally a representation of Christ, often flanked by the 12 apostles he chose to spread his teachings.

The intense gazes and large raised hands of these two apostles express their devotion. Crowned with beaded haloes to indicate their saintliness, they also wear classical robes, a style that early Christian artists adopted from Roman sculptures.