Door of the Judgement

This shot is close-in detail of the Door of the Judgement which is on the west facade of Notre Dame cathedral in Paris. Since most people were illiterate at the time when Notre Dame was built, the builders told Biblical stories in the artwork and sculptures.

In the center toward the top of the picture, you can see Christ seated on the Throne of Judgement surrounded by his angels. Just below the throne are the ranks of the dead--to the left side as you're looking at it (on Jesus' right) are the saints who look up toward him, with an angel at the end of the line. On the right side (Jesus' left) are those who are damned--pulling a rope representing eternal toil, with a demon at the end of the rope. Below this level are those who are in purgatory. The whole scene is surrounded by the ranks of angels who look on in wonder and amazement.

This is a near-perfect representation of the Biblical description of God's final judgement of mankind as described in the Book of Revelation. Even if you're not a Christian, you still have to admire the skill of the masons and sculptors who made this, and the skill and devotion of those who have preserved from the wear and tear of weather, pollution, etc. Hope you enjoy.

Another photo tomorrow...