‘Gates of Heaven’: Significance of the Signs of Cancer and Leo on French Medieval Portals
Ivana Lemcool
Images of the Zodiac adorn numerous portals medieval churches, often together with representations Labours Months. It has been noted that among Signs, Cancer and Leo occupy prominent positions, particularly in churches modern-day France, where they can be seen at summits archivolts or top door jambs. This occurence mostly regarded as a reference to summer solstice, taking place sign Cancer, which was an appropriate symbol for Christ, who depicted on tympana below. According Macrobius’s Commentary Dream Scipio, during their incarnation, souls pass from into Leo, journey Earth. Considering popularity this text throughout Middle Ages, I argue notion ‘portal men’, influenced decision provide images crab lion conspicuous positions within sculptural programs French portals. By considering these signs context surrounding decorative scheme, well providing relevant passages contemporary theological texts, aim demonstrate how depictions participated contributed complex symbolism church
Culture and Cosmos