Gothic head of an Apostle

Circa 1420 - 1450
Upper Rhineland , possibly Strasbourg

W 8 × H 12 × D 8

Stock # Marh415

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This imposing lifesize head is carved in walnut and possibly from the Upper Rhineland. With its long, deeply carved ringlets framing the face, thick curling moustache and prominent beard. It most likely represents an apostle,  saint or a figure from the Old Testament. It is possible the head was carved in Strasbourg, the most important artist centre in the Upper Rhineland. There is an very similar sandstone head of an earlier date, in the Metropolitan museum of art, New York. (last picture) circa 1280 - 1300 On a modern stand, in superb original condition with two sections of collar repaired.