The sculpted decorations of the Sainte-Chapelle

Sainte-Chapelle de paris, médaillon de saint Sébastien

Sculpture is everywhere in the Sainte-Chapelle!

A refined decoration

Take time to admire the sculpted decor, which, thanks to the medieval master builders and the 19th century restorers, magnifies the sumptuous architecture of the monument.

Although the Virgin and Child in the portal of the lower chapel is a 19th century work by the artist Geoffroy-Dechaume, it recalls the beauty and grace of its medieval forebears.

As for the statue of the Blessing Christ, by the same artist, leaning against the overmantel of the portal of the upper chapel, it recalls the Beautiful God of Amiens Cathedral in its gentle solemnity.

Sainte-Chapelle de Paris détail de la statue de la Vièrge à l'enfant
Bernard Acloque - Centre des monuments nationaux

The 13th century artists who sculpted the hundred or so capitals and consoles of the upper chapel showed a keen sense of naturalism.

The most botanical among us will notice the profusion and variety of plants that make up the decoration of the capitals of the upper chapel: thistles, buttercups, hawthorns, vines, hollies and even roses, which are all different from one another. You may be surprised to come across a bird pecking or a fantastic animal lurking in the shadows of these sculptures. Mirror of Nature, they testify to the permanent wonder of the 13th century man to Creation.

Sainte-Chapelle de Paris détail d'un chapiteau — DR - Centre des monuments nationaux

Finally, you notice the presence of 12 statues, positioned against the pillars that support the vaults, these are the apostles, the true pillars of the Church.

Each character holds a disc marked with a cross: these crosses recall the consecration of the chapel. Barefoot for some, like God or Christ, a mark of divinity in the iconographic tradition of the 13th century, others have their feet covered by their overabundant drapery. They are remarkable examples of the "classical" Gothic style that flourished at the time of Saint Louis.

The apostles are referred to as "philosopher" or "melancholic". Few of them are identifiable, however you will recognize Saint Peter carrying the key and the cross, at his side, in the apse, Paul, carrying a sword, and John, the most youthful and beardless with a smile full of tenderness.