The subject is the Old Testament story of the death of Absalom, the son of
King David.
(II Samuel,
18:9-15) Absalom, had lead a revolt against his father. While fleeing
after a battle where he was defeated by his father's forces, he caught his hair
in a tree branch. His horse continued on without him. Jaob found Absalom hanging
form the tree and killed him.
On the left side of the capital, Joab stands under a tree. He has a mustache but
is otherwise clean-shaven, and does not wear armor. One had holds his garment,
while, in the other, he holds a sword with which he cuts off Absolam's head.
On the front face of the capital, Absalom hangs by his hair from a tree (at
left) while his mount continues on without him. (at right). Absalom has very
long hair, the front of which is twisted in the foliage of a tree whose trunk is
in the center of the capital's face. Absolom's mount (a horse? A mule?) has an
empty saddle and bridle as it proceeds on.
On the right hand side of the capital , one of Absolom's companions looks back
on the scene.On the right side of the capital one of Absolom's companions looks
back on the scene. He is also mounted on a horse or mule, which continues
forward. The young man holds the reins in his left hand hand and raises the
index finger of his right hand
Location within Floorplan
Placement in Elevation
Salet: Number 53-
North side of nave.
North side of fifth arcade pier.