Bust of an Apostle

Unknown

ca. 1120–30 · Copper, gilding · Medieval Art

Although this bust has lost its once-splendid gilding, its handsome sculptural quality is still apparent. It was one of a group of the twelve apostles created for the shrine of Saint Walburg in Groningen, the Netherlands. Situated near the North Sea, the city was a prosperous trade center. This group was among a large hoard of fragments found in 1911. It included busts of apostles and reliefs of Christ in Majesty and of the Adoration of the Magi. These are now in the museum in Groningen.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1120–30

Medium

Copper, gilding

Culture

South Netherlandish

Department

Medieval Art

Credit line

Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917