Ethiopian Large Triptych Icon Showing the Crucifixion. Late 16th century AD. A wooden triptych with recessed back panels and two folding flaps each with a shallow recess; the inner faces with painted crucifixion scene flanked by Nativity and other scenes from the life of Christ above advancing horsemen; Ge'ez script legends in the field.See Heldman, M., Munro-Hay Stuart, C., African Zion, The sacred art of Ethiopia, Yale University Press, 1993, cat.93.1.1 kg, 43cm (17"). Ex central London gallery; previously in the collection of Lord McAlpine, in 1996.The central theme of this icon is the Crucifixion, dominated by a council of ten apostles, with other scenes of Christ’s life surrounding: the Nativity on the right, the Resurrection on the left, with Jesus grasping the hand of Adam; the middle panels showing, on the left, the deposition of Christ’s body into the grave by Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea; on the right the three remaining apostles. The left and right corner panels show Saint George and another military saint on horseback. The scheme of this icon follows the pattern of the Saint George triptych by Nicolo’ Brancaleon. The redemptive sacrifice of Christ is to be seen in the pain of Saint Mary and Saint John, who stand as witnesses beside the cross. Three angels collect the Holy Blood of Christ in their cups, demonstrating the Eucharistic significance of the Crucifixion. [No Reserve]