Relief depicting Griffins and Jesus

This high relief depicts Jesus in the centre, raising one hand as to give his blessings as Salvator Mundi. He is surrounded by four figures whom depict the Four Evangelists: Matthew - Winged Man - Book of Matthew deals with the geneology of Christ; the winged man refers to human ancestors. Mark - Winged Lion - Book of Mark deals with the resurrection of Christ; it was thought that a lioness' cubs were born dead and they were given life from the father lion's breath. Luke - Winged Ox - Book of Luke deals with the sacrifice of Christ; oxen were common sacrificial animals. John - Eagle - Eagle is symbol of highest inspiration; John wrote his gospel, 3 epistles, and Revelation. The provenance of this work is unknown.