The Entry of Christ into Jerusalem 1526 - 1538

This small, intricately carved crystal plaque, titled “The Entry of Christ into Jerusalem,” was created by the Italian artist Valerio Belli, also known as “Il Vicentino,” between 1526 and 1538. The work depicts a scene from the New Testament, where Christ enters Jerusalem on a donkey, welcomed by crowds of people. The piece is notable for its fine detail and masterful use of light and shadow. The inscription on the piece reads “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.” This work exemplifies the artist’s skill as a craftsman and his interest in religious subject matter. The plaque is now in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.