Enthroned Mother of God with child

Origin
Southern Germany / Lake Constance region
Age
around 1600- 40
Size
50.5 cm x 40.5 cm
Previous owner
Munich private collection

Description

The Zürn family of sculptors – masterpieces of the early Baroque in Upper Swabia

The Zürn family of sculptors, one of the most important families of artists in southern Germany, had a significant influence on the artistic landscape in the Upper Swabia region and on Lake Constance. Especially in the towns of Überlingen and Bad Waldsee, where the family was active between 1600 and 1640, the Zürns left behind impressive works that are still admired today.

The origins of the Zürn family lie in Waldsee (now Bad Waldsee), where Hans Zürn the Elder, the founder of the sculptor dynasty, was born around 1555. His sons, including the famous sculptors Hans Zürn the Younger and Michael Zürn the Elder, followed in their father’s footsteps and continued to develop the family tradition. They created outstanding sculptures that reflect the transition from late Gothic to Renaissance and finally to early Baroque.

In Überlingen, where the Zürns were particularly active, numerous altars, sculptures and artistic woodwork were created, representing the rich artistic heritage of the region. One of the most famous works is the high altar in St. Nicholas Minster in Überlingen, which was designed by the Zürn family. This altar, with its detailed figures and impressive structure, is a masterpiece of early Baroque sacred art.

The Zürns also left behind important works in Bad Waldsee. The Waldsee Monastery, now a Capuchin monastery, is home to some of the most beautiful works of the Zürns, including artistically crafted sculptures and altars. The Zürns’ works are characterized by an intense expressiveness and fine attention to detail that make their figures appear both lively and spiritual.

The Zürn family of sculptors combined traditional craftsmanship with innovative design elements in their work. Her works are characterized by a high degree of precision craftsmanship and deep religious symbolism that captivate the viewer. The period from 1600 to 1640 was a heyday for the Zürns, during which they made a lasting name for themselves in southern German art history.

Today, the Zürns’ works are regarded as outstanding examples of early Baroque sacred art and attract art lovers and historians alike. In Überlingen and Bad Waldsee, you can still admire the impressive traces of this remarkable family of artists, who had a decisive influence on the religious art of their time.

Enthroned Mother of God with child:

Limewood with polychrome frame and gilding.
Sculptor family Hans or Michael Zürn active in Überlingen/ Waldsee,
around 1600- 40.

The Mother of God is depicted seated on a throne, with the seated and blessing Christ Child on her lap
Very good state of preservation, version in partially overrun.

A collector’s item!

Provenance: Private collection Munich