Matthew 21
The Triumphal Entry in Biblical Art
The triumphal entry gives artists a public scene of kingship, expectation, palms, garments, and the road into Jerusalem.
Bible and Art Context
The Gospels show Jesus entering Jerusalem humbly, riding on a donkey while the crowds cry Hosanna. Giotto gives the city gate, gathered disciples, and spreading garments a clear visual order.
Public domain
Entry into Jerusalem
Giotto, circa 1305, Fresco
Giotto makes the Palm Sunday scene orderly and communal, with the road into Jerusalem becoming the road toward the Passion.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
CC0
Plaque with Jesus' Entry into Jerusalem
Byzantine artist, 900-925, Elephant ivory
This small Byzantine plaque shows how the triumphal entry was preserved not only in paintings, but also in carved devotional objects.
Source: The Met Open AccessQuestions about Triumphal Entry in Art
Where is the triumphal entry in the Bible?
The triumphal entry is recorded in all four Gospels. This page links to Matthew 21.
Why is Jesus shown riding a donkey?
The donkey points to humble kingship and echoes the prophetic background of Zechariah 9:9.