Lot number 1 - Auction 165
SCHLUSSSTEIN-RONDELL MIT CHRISTUS UND KREUZNIMBUS

KEYSTONE ROUNDEL WITH CHRIST AND CROSS-HALO Germany or France, first half of the 14th century White marble, carved in relief, set within a later wooden frame. Diameter 21 cm, depth 8 cm, weight approx. 5.24 kg. A rare Gothic keystone roundel depicting Christ in relief. The head is surrounded by a cross-halo, the traditional symbol of his divine nature and role as Savior. The monumental rendering of the face, as well as the clear, minimalist design, are characteristic of medieval architectural sculpture from the first half of the 14th century. Originally conceived presumably as a keystone for a sacred vault or as an architectural ornament, the relief represents a high-quality example of Gothic stonemasonry. Wear and age-related weathering; frame added later and damaged. Provenance: Formerly the Hohenzollern Collection, Sigmaringen; acquired from Kunsthandel Klendauer, Wiesbaden.