In the Notre Dame Cathedral's "Portal of the Virgins" there is an interesting bas relief with seven circles under the dead virgin. What do the circles represent?

lanfranco

Presumably, tf, you mean the "Portal of the Virgin" -- singular, not plural. The seven circles on the bier of the Virgin in the central register of the portal are decorative. If you look closely -- I'm using an illustration in one of Adolf Katzenellebogen's books, but I encourage you to pull out a magnifying glass if you have one, and examine your own photograph closely -- you will see that the three rosette motifs on both the left and right sides are the same, repeated decorative motifs. Only the central motif is unique. However, if you disagree with my interpretation, then please do provide a supporting reference site or other citation for your opinion -- something you've been singularly reluctant to do, to my mystification. http://www.pbase.com/bmcmorrow/image/48231777 Apr 12 07, 5:28 PM