Chapelle Saint-Gabriel, Tarascon: Distant view through olive grove, oculus of facade visible

This chapel is the only remnant of an ancient village named Ernaginum. Although dating from the 12th century, Saint-Gabriel has an unusually rich and decorated facade. The sculpture program includes Adam and Eve, Daniel in the lions' den, the Annunciation and Visitation, and around the oculus, the emblems of the 4 evangelists: an angel for Matthew, the lion for Mark, the ox for Luke and the eagle for John. The Arles style is characterized by strong classicism and technical excellence. Foliate capitals are Corinthian based, with deeply undercut leaves and extensive use of the drill. Figures tend to be rather squat, with over-large heads but with well-executed, flowing drapery. At the same time there existed a simpler style, seen in many country churches and exemplified by the tympanum at Saint-Gabriel, where it contrasts with the sophisticated Arles-style west window.