Detail of the Tomb Effigy of Jean d'Alluye in the Cloisters, June 2011

Tomb Effigy of Jean d'Alluye

Date: mid-13th century

Geography: Made in Touraine, Loire Valley

Culture: French

Medium: Limestone

Dimensions: 83 1/2 x 34 1/4 in. (212.1 x 87 cm)

Classification: Sculpture-Architectural

Credit Line: The Cloisters Collection, 1925

Accession Number: 25.120.201

Description:

This image of the knight Jean d’Alluye comes from the abbey at La Clarté-Dieu, which he founded in 1239, before setting out on Crusade to the Holy Land in 1241. He returned safely to France by 1244, carrying with him a relic of the True Cross, presented to him by the bishop of Hiera Petra, on Crete. It seems he somehow also acquired his sword during his travels, as its trefoil pommel conforms to contemporary examples from China. The effigy is supported by a modern base.

Text from: www.metmuseum.org/collection/the-collection-online/search/470599