Date: late 12th–early 13th century
Geography: Made in Languedoc, France
Dimensions: Overall: 11 1/2 x 9 1/2 x 9 5/8 in. (29.2 x 24.1 x 24.4 cm)
Credit Line: The Cloisters Collection, 1925
Accession Number: 25.120.60
This capital depicts a scene from the New Testament in which the infant Jesus is presented at the Temple in Jerusalem for consecration to the Lord, as was customary for the firstborn child. On one side appears the now-damaged figure of Simeon, depicted as a high priest, holding the infant. On the other side, a kneeling Joseph supports Christ's feet, while Mary stands behind, holding the sacrificial dove required in the rite of purification.