Saint John

Maker Unknown (German (south Germany, [probably Swabia]), 15th Century)

Additional Title(s)

St. John
From a Crucifixion Group

ClassificationsSCULPTURE

Dateca. 1440

Mediumlimewood, minimal traces of polychrome pigment

Dimensionsheight: 20 1/2 in. (52.1 cm.)

DescriptionThis statuette portrays Saint John. It is probably from a Crucifixion group.

Credit LineThe Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. Gift of the Ernst and Marta Silten-Friedberg Collection

Status

On view

Label TextThis rare, late medieval figure depicts Saint John the Evangelist, a disciple of Jesus of Nazareth. The tilt of the saint’s head indicates that he was part of a larger ensemble of figures—either the Crucifixion or the Lamentation, since the saint is typically present in both scenes. Although much of the figure’s painted surface has disappeared, one senses a strong emotional charge from his subtle hand gesture and facial expression.

Object number2007.17.1