The Altarpiece of Sant Joanipol

The Altarpiece of Sant Joanipol, currently at the Episcopal Museum of Vic (Spain).

This stunning 14th-century alabaster altarpiece tells the story of Christ’s Passion, Death, Resurrection, and Ascension. It was created between 1341 and 1342 for the church of Sant Joan i Sant Pau, also known as Sant Joanipol, in Sant Joan de les Abadesses.

At that time, the town was home to skilled sculptors specializing in alabaster. One of them, Bernat Saulet, was commissioned to carve this masterpiece. The altarpiece originally featured bright colors and glass details, making the scenes even more lifelike.

For centuries, it was an important part of the church’s religious heritage. In 1889, it was moved to the Episcopal Museum of Vic, where it remains today. The altarpiece is displayed in the state that it was when it arrived, allowing visitors to appreciate its beauty and craftsmanship as it was originally intended.