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| The Annunciation late 15th century Alabaster, carved in England Victoria & Albert Museum |
Episodes from the life of Christ were elaborated in Europe and new ones invented as the centuries passed. Each incident – whether Scriptural or legendary – could be visualized as a tableau, with each tableau carrying the full weight of infinite significance. During the 15th century the story was often told by means of small alabaster reliefs – like these from the Victoria & Albert Museum.
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| The Visitation 15th century Alabaster, carved in England Victoria & Albert Museum |
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| The Birth of St John the Baptist early 16th century Alabaster, carved in France Victoria & Albert Museum |
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| Mary & Joseph with Midwives, Adoring the Christ Child 15th century Alabaster, carved in England Victoria & Albert Museum |
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| The Betrayal of Christ 15th century Alabaster, carved in England Victoria & Albert Museum |
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| Christ before Herod early 16th century Alabaster, carved in England Victoria & Albert Museum |
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| Christ Bearing the Cross 15th century Alabaster, carved in England Victoria & Albert Museum |
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| Christ Nailed to the Cross 15th century Alabaster, carved in England Victoria & Albert Museum |
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| The Deposition 15th century Alabaster, carved in England Victoria & Albert Museum |
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| The Entombment 15th century Alabaster, carved in England Victoria & Albert Museum |
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| The Harrowing of Hell 15th century Alabaster, carved in England Victoria & Albert Museum |
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| The Resurrection 15th century Alabaster, carved in England Victoria & Albert Museum |
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| The Ascension 15th century Alabaster, carved in England Victoria & Albert Museum |
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| The Trinity 16th century Alabaster, carved in England Victoria & Albert Museum |
In the alabaster Trinity above, there is a dowel-hole visible at the top of the Cross. This was originally used to attach a carved dove, now missing.