Lot 10

Neznámý středoevropský Mistr A PURGATORY

The extraordinarily rare monumental torso-shaped late gothic relief, originally probably from the majestic altar, depicts the Purgatory motif in maple wood. The five sinners sculpting from the whipping flames with the motif of an intertwining snake are depicted in analogy with Spanish church buildings, where reliefs with such a theme were often variegated polychrome. There is also obvious inspiration from ancient and later renaissance figural sculptures and reliefs. According to the Christian doctrine of some churches, purgatory is a state in which the souls of the dead are cleansed of less serious sins and imperfections before they enter the heavenly state. It was the purgatory motif that was often used in churches and monasteries in southern Europe for a praying secular audience. However, the composition is more like Transalpine Central Europe from the late Gothic and early Renaissance. It is truly a masterfully executed and unique artifact not commonly offered on the market.