Lot number 9 - Auction 165
HEILIGER BISCHOF

HOLY BISHOP Probably Franconia, Southern Germany, early 16th century. Linden wood, sculpted in the round, polychromed and gilded, flattened and hollowed out on the back. H. 102, W. 33, D. 20 cm. A high-quality late-Gothic depiction of a holy bishop from the Franconian region. The figure is depicted in solemn pontifical vestments with a miter and crosier as symbols of his spiritual office, holding a book in his left hand. The balanced posture, the carefully modeled facial features, and the deep, richly draped folds of the robe are characteristic of South German woodcarving of the early 16th century. Condition: wear and tear; insect damage on the reverse; the bishop's crozier has a later-added shaft; some loss of material.