Christ Blessing, c.1500 (tempera, oil & gold on panel)

Various motifs in the distant landscape allude to the Resurrection theme. On the left of the panel, the withered tree with the solitary bird probably stands for the Old Covenant, out of which the New Covenant would grow. The pair of rabbits signify regeneration, while the shepherd tending his flock is a reminder that Christ, himself, is the Good Shepherd (John 10:14). The three robed figures at the right edge of the picture are undoubtedly the three Marys, who are hurrying to tell the disciples of the empty tomb. Above them the distant bell tower denotes that salvation is found through Christ’s sacrifice and the Church.