Portugal (Tomar)

Prophets of the Charola: Polychrome Wood Sculpture by Olivier de Gant and Fernão de Muñoz at the Convent of Christ (16th Century)

2573

Early 16th century (Manueline era) Executed circa 1510–1515 as part of the decorative program by Flemish woodcarver Olivier de Gant and Spanish-Portuguese sculptor Fernão de Muñoz.

Religious Purpose: Created to adorn the central choir (Charola) of the Templar/Order of Christ stronghold, providing spiritual intercession, visual liturgy, and didactic representation of biblical prophets and priests for the monastic community. Ideological Purpose: Aligns the spiritual lineage of the Old Testament prophets and Church fathers with the divine mandate of the Portuguese military-religious Order of Christ during the Age of Discovery.