Jean Léon Gérôme (1824-1904),Les Rameaux (Christ Entering Jerusalem), 1897, bronze, 32 x 10 x 30 inches. Brigham Young University Museum of Art, purchased with funds provided by Jack R. and Mary Lois Wheatley, 2009.
Today marks Palm Sunday, the day in which the Savior entered Jerusalem for the final time in His ministry. Pressing crowds surrounded Him, lauding and declaring Him their Messiah. Yet in Gérôme’s sculpture, the crowds are not visible. Only their palm fronds—tokens of their praise—fill the donkey’s path. Christ carries a palm branch—a symbol of triumph—and extends a gesture of blessing towards the unseen multitude; however, Jesus’ somber, wearied countenance evidences his understanding of the agonizing trials to come. This week, we will be featuring many artworks from our collection to celebrate the Easter season. Watch your inbox for these bonus Artwork of the Week emails this week!