retabel

A retabel, also known as an altarpiece, is a work of art placed behind the altar in a Christian church. Typically, retabels are composed of panels that may be painted or carved, and they often depict biblical scenes, the lives of saints, or other religious imagery. The word "retabel" itself is derived from the Latin word "retabulum," meaning "behind the table," referring to its position relative to the altar.

Historically, retabels have served multiple purposes. Beyond their decorative function, they acted as visual aids for worshipers, reinforcing religious narratives and doctrines. They could also serve as focal points for devotion, with specific figures or scenes being the object of prayer and veneration. The complexity and scale of retabels varied greatly, from simple painted panels to elaborate multi-tiered structures with numerous figures and compartments.

The style and materials used in retabels evolved over centuries, reflecting artistic movements and the available resources of the commissioning church or patron. Early examples might be simpler in design, while later periods, such as the Gothic and Renaissance, saw the creation of increasingly intricate and monumental altarpieces. Many surviving retabels are now considered significant works of art and historical artifacts, often housed in museums or preserved in situ within churches. The practice of commissioning and installing retabels has continued, though the form and emphasis may have changed in contemporary religious art.