Question

what decorative sculptures are located on the central portal of the amiens cathedral, seen below?

Explanation:

Identify the architectural monument and portal

The image shows the central portal of the west facade of Amiens Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame d'Amiens), a classic masterpiece of High Gothic architecture.

Identify the central portal's iconographic program

The central portal of Amiens Cathedral is dedicated to the Last Judgment (Le Beau Dieu portal). The tympanum depicts Christ in Judgment separating the elect from the damned, while the trumeau features the famous statue of Christ known as "Le Beau Dieu" (The Beautiful God). The jambs feature statues of the Apostles.

Answer:

The central portal of Amiens Cathedral (the Portal of the Last Judgment) features the following major decorative sculptures:

1. The Tympanum: Depicts the Last Judgment, showing Christ in Majesty, the weighing of souls by Archangel Michael, and the separation of the saved (the elect) from the damned.
2. The Trumeau: Features the famous statue of Le Beau Dieu (The Beautiful God), representing Christ teaching and blessing while trampling a lion and a dragon (symbolizing evil).
3. The Jambs: Flanked by large-scale statues of the Twelve Apostles standing on pedestals.
4. The Archivolts: Decorated with rows of angels, martyrs, confessors, and elders of the Apocalypse.