The front of the shrine, which dates from around 1200, is crowned by a scene showing Christ as Judge of the Universe. Following the Adoration of the Magi and the Baptism of Christ, this is the third epiphany of Christ. The enthroned Christ is flanked by two angels. The angel on the left holds a chalice and paten; the angel of the right a crown—symbols that Christ is both a priest and a king. Busts of angels bearing instruments of the passion (nails and lance) hover above Christ as the judge. Christ holds up his right hand in judgement and carries a scroll bearing the inscription ‘Liber vite’ (book of life) in his left hand. Originally, the now empty space above Christ’s head contained a bust of the Archangel Michael holding a cross, the symbol of Christ’s victory.
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