Aarhus Cathedral Altarpiece

The altarpiece is located inside the Aarhus Cathedral, officially known as the Church of St. Clemens, in Denmark. It stands as one of the most significant surviving pieces of late medieval woodwork in all of Scandinavia.

It is a massive, intricately carved wooden winged altarpiece created by medieval artisans. The wings, or doors, could be opened and closed to reveal different sculptural scenes depending on the specific day in the liturgical calendar.

When fully opened, the central section reveals highly detailed carved scenes dedicated to the Passion of Christ and the life of the Virgin Mary. The sculptures were originally painted in vibrant polychrome colors, though much of the historic paint has worn away over the centuries.

The altarpiece was constructed in the late 15th century, dedicated around 1479 when the cathedral's choir was finally completed. It was carved by the famous Lübeck sculptor Bernt Notke and his workshop in Germany.