Descent into Hell by Viktor Vasnetsov 1896-1904, Russia

The Harrowing of Hell (or Descent into Hell) is a frequent theme in ancient images of the Passion. Christ is shown releasing the captives from Hell. At the front of the procession we usually see a man and a woman, who represent Adam and Eve (the parents of all mankind.) Hell is often depicted in the form of a monster or dragon with a huge open mouth that is holding all the people it has devoured.

Artist is Viktor Vasnetsov 1896-1904, Russia

• • Captives set free,
  • Christ in Limbo,
  • death where is thy sting,
  • Descent into Hell,
  • Harrowing of Hell,
  • Jesus Christ,
  • Jesus the victor over death,
  • victory over death,
  • Viktor Vasnetsov