Saint Anne the Third
Origin
Southern Germany/ Swabia/ Ulm area
Age
around 1480 – 1500
Size
68.0 cm x 27.0 cm
Previous owner
Private collection Puhlheim
Description
SAINT ANNA SELBDRITT
On the subject:
The depiction of Anna Selbdritt, i.e. St. Anne together with her daughter Mary and the Christ Child, is an important motif in Christian art that was particularly widespread in the Middle Ages. The composition shows St. Anne as the mother of Mary and grandmother of Jesus, which emphasizes her central role in the history of salvation. The iconographic depiction of Anna Selbdritt was immortalized in sculptures and other art forms, particularly in southern Germany and Swabia around Ulm in the period between 1480 and 1500.
Anna Selbdritt:
An outstanding example of these depictions is this sculpture made of lime wood, which was created around 1480-1500 in the region of Swabia. This figure shows Anna standing, with little Mary on her left arm and the Christ Child on her right arm. This pictorial representation not only conveys the close family connection, but also the importance of St. Anne as a mediator between the generations and as a central figure in the history of faith. The focus on the three generations emphasizes the human nature of Christ and his deep roots in family tradition, while Anna is portrayed as a wise and caring mother.
The use of lime wood, which is known for its fine grain and good carving properties, contributes to the sculpture’s attention to detail and expressiveness. Wood carvings like these were common in the late Middle Ages and testify to the high level of craftsmanship of the masters of the time. The depiction of Anna Selbdritt is not only a religious symbol, but also an expression of the deep reverence in which St. Anne was held. Her memorial day is traditionally celebrated on July 26 and commemorates her important role in Christian salvation history.
This sculpture from the Ulm area is particularly remarkable because of its excellent state of preservation, which allows us to admire the finesse of medieval carving even today.
Very good condition from a collection near Pulheim/ North Rhine/ Westphalia.
A collector’s item