Gannat - Sainte Croix

The parish church Sainte Croix in Gannat is the result of a very long and complex history. Two apses and some parts of the transept date back to the 12th century.

Outside one of the romanesque apses is this remarkable nice capital, depicting the Nativity.

On the right is an angel in the sky above two shepherds. The shepherds standing close together in a gesture of scare and surprise. To the right a very large Joseph. Contemplating in a typical pose, holding the elbow, the hand at his chin. Next to Josph´s head the rear part of the ox.

On the center of the capital is Mary resting in a boatlike bed, crowned by a halo. Connected via a spiraled chord to Jesus, who is tightly swaddled and placed in a manger. Above him the ox and a horse, what in this context can be a very elegant ass.