Tympanum of the church parish
Bergheim Bergheim
The church was built in the second quarter of the fourteenth century, the nave and the tower undergoing transformations in the eighteenth century The main gate at the bottom of the tower is surmounted by a tympanum is carved in half relief, the Adoration of the Magi. According to tradition, the Virgin is seated and holds the Infant Jesus on her lap. One of the Magi kneels and presents a gift (a cut), the other two standing waiting to pay their respects. In the upper register that designates an angel figure placed a star above the Virgin and Child. The mage in the center of the scene shows the star of his forefinger and turned to the third mage. They are dressed in the fashion of the fourteenth century, two in long tunic and a cloak knotted over the shoulder, the third in a short tunic and cape.
The Virgin is crowned, and the two mages standing, one kneeling having deposited his crown. The Magi are portrayed as kings, which corresponds to a reading of Psalm 71 referring to "the kings of Tarshish and the islands bring presents; all kings bow down before him, all nations shall serve him." We know that the text of the Gospel Matthew (2:1-12) speaks only of Magi (without count).
representation of the Adoration of the Magi is also the cathedral of Strasbourg, Soultz, to Rosenwiller ... and appears to have been in the Middle Ages, more common than the Nativity. Perhaps the influence of the very important pilgrimage to Cologne and the existence of relics Ribeauvillé have played a role in this rule which also has a theological meaning different from that of the Nativity.
Benedict Jordan-ACPRA.
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