The tree of life at Orvieto Cathedral

This exquisite sculptural rendition of the tree of life adorns the facade of the cathedral at Orvieto. If you click on the image you will see the details of the carving, and depictions of the creation, the births of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, The Temptation, the Expulsion from the Garden, and the acquisition of agriculture and learning.

The facade of Orvieto was designed by the Sienese Lorenzo Maitani c. 1310. The sculptural decoration is in varying styles, the distinguishing feature being an extraordinarily low and delicate relief.

On the opposite side of the main door, is pictured, in extraordinary detail, the Day of Judgement.