Holt Antiques at Walsingham Mill
Late 15th Century / Early 16th Century German Gothic Antique Carved Polychrome Saint – Southern Germany, c.1480-1500
Late 15th Century / Early 16th Century German Gothic Antique Carved Polychrome Saint – Southern Germany, c.1480-1500
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A finely carved and richly polychromed Gothic saint, dating to around 1480-1500, likely originating from Southern Germany or Bavaria. This expressive figure was once part of a larger altarpiece or devotional group, and retains large areas of its original painted surface.
The saint, possibly St. John the Evangelist, is shown with a cloth draped over one arm, a gesture that may reference a biblical or liturgical role. The carving is confident and detailed, with visible veins on the neck and hands, a finely modelled beard, and expressive facial features. The folds of the robe and cloak are deeply cut, and the surviving pigment — especially the reds and blues — adds warmth and presence.
This fragment was likely housed in a church or chapel. It now stands as a rare survivor of late Gothic religious sculpture. The reverse bears an attribution, and the figure is presented in untouched condition, with only light surface dusting.
Provenance: Germany. Late 15th-early 16th Century. Acquired from a private collection in Lake Constance.
Why Saint John? He has a youthful but serious face and soft, curling hair. A gentle, introspective expression. He is often shown holding or arranging drapery when part of a larger Crucifixion or Deposition group. Very common in Southern German altarpieces c.1480–1500. John is frequently carved with a draped cloth, especially when paired with the Virgin in Passion scenes.
Condition: Carved wood with original polychrome. Surface wear, pigment losses, and edge trimming are consistent with age. Structurally stable. Photos show the actual item
Dimensions: Height: 37 cm / 14.57 in Width: 26 cm / 10.24 in Depth: 11 cm / 4.33 in
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