Descent into Hell

Iconography:  Resurrection – The Descent into Hell

Date: XVI century. The second half of the 16th century, 1560s

Origin: From the iconostasis of Cathedral of the Nativity of the Holy Virgin of the St. Antony monastery.

Material: Wood, tempera

Setting's material: Silver

Dimensions:  height 66 cm, width 54 cm

In the center of the composition stands the figure of Jesus Christ in a three-quarter turn, trampling upon the broken gates of hell. He is flanked by the kneeling Adam and Eva. To either sides of Jesus Christ stand the Old Testament prophets and righteous.

Inv. № 2770. © Novgorod State United Museum


  • General view
  • The face of Jesus Christ
  • Adam
  • Eva
  • King David and Solomon, John the Baptist, Daniel the Prophet
  • The Old Testament righteous