The identity of the jambs have been a topic of debate for scholars for a long time. Bernard de Montfaucon identified the statues of Saint-Denis as the Merovingian kings and queens. This theory was rejected though by Abbe Lebeuf in 1751. Instead of Montfaucon’s theory, Abbe suggested that these statues portray figures from the old testament. This idea stood until Ernst Kitzinger proposed that these statues are the antecedents of both the kings of France and Christ. Although there is no proof backing this opinion, it seems to be the most poignant. Jamb statues on the right hand portal are believed to be patriarchs and early leaders of the Jewish people. Jamb statues on the left and central portals are representational of royal figures. The church of Saint Denis was chosen as a burial for Merovingian, Carolingian and Capetian dynasties. This church had history with royalty, and this could be the reason why royalty is honored in the jamb statues
During the coronation......
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