User:Auric/Door of the Dead in St. Peter's Basilica

The Door of the Dead in St. Peter's Basilica or Death Gate is a bronze door that was one of three designed by 20th century sculptor Giacomo Manzù and includes a portrait of Pope John XXIII kneeling before the crucified figure of Saint Peter. The door is at the south of the narthex of St. Peter's Basilica.

It was previously used as the exit for funeral processions.

Images on the Door
The doors shows the death of several biblical figures. At the top right, the Crucifixion of Jesus and at the top left, the Assumption of Mary, followed by the violent death of Abel, the serene death of Saint Joseph, the death of the first pope, the death of Pope John XXIII, the death of the first martyr (Saint Stephen), the death of Pope Gregory VII, death improvised in space and death of a mother at home.

Manzù signed the work with the imprint of his right hand on the inside.

Under the panels are six creatures: a blackbird, a dormouse, a hedgehog, an owl, a tortoise and a raven. On the inside of the door is a portrayal of John XXIII receiving the bishops on the first day of the Second Vatican Council.