Welcome to (Medieval) Hell
Curious about how the Middle Ages envisioned hell? Let’s dive into some intriguing depictions!
Hours of Catherine of Cleves (detail), about 1440, Dutch. Morgan Library & Museum. MS M.917/945, p. 180–f. 97r.
Body Content
In medieval manuscripts, artists often depicted the entrance to hell as the wide, gaping jaws of a beast ready to swallow you whole.
Not terrifying at all, right?
The Harrowing of Hell, about 1190–1200; text added about 1480–1490, English. Tempera colors and gold leaf, 4 11/16 × 6 11/16 in. Getty Museum,
The Beast Acheron, 1475, Simon Marmion. Tempera colors, gold leaf, gold paint, and ink, Getty Museum, Ms. 30, fol. 17 (87.MN.141.17.17)
While there’s no Biblical connection that refers to hell’s entrance being an actual beast’s mouth, it became a replicated artistic tradition throughout the Middle Ages. This intense imagery was used to encourage readers to live pious lives free of sin.
Gates were sometimes used to denote the entrance to hell, but they weren’t as common.
One compelling scene you might find is the Harrowing of Hell, where Jesus descends after his resurrection to rescue righteous souls suffering there, like Adam and Eve.
Lazarus in the Bosom of Abraham, The Rich Man in Hell, 1469, Follower of Hans Schilling. Ink, colored washes, and tempera colors, 11 1/4 × 8 in. Ms. Ludwig XV 9 (83.MR.179), fol. 86v
The Fall of the Rebel Angels in Livre de Bonnes Meurs, about 1430, French. Getty Museum, Ms. Ludwig XIV 9 (83.MQ.170), fol. 3v
These vivid illustrations served a purpose beyond mere fright; they aimed to encourage people to lead pious lives and steer clear of sin. Honestly, after witnessing such intense imagery, wouldn’t you want to live a good life?
The Gates of Hell and Lucifer, 1475, Simon Marmion. Tempera colors, gold leaf, gold paint, and ink, 14 5/16 × 10 5/16 in. Getty Museum, Ms. 30, fol. 30v (87.MN.141.30.30v)
So next time you explore medieval art, take a moment to appreciate the complex relationship between faith and creativity. It’s a fascinating reflection of how art shaped—and was shaped by—the beliefs of the time.
Want more spooky content? Watch Mel Casas’ Macabre Minute on Getty’s social channels!
