Antique wooden sculpture depicting St. Barbara h.70 cm

This wooden sculpture depicts St. Barbara, a martyr greatly venerated in the medieval and Renaissance periods. Identification of the Saint The main attribute that allows identification is the tower that the figure holds in her left hand. In Christian hagiography, Saint Barbara was locked by her father in a tower to protect her from suitors; she had a third window opened there to symbolize the Trinity. Stylistic Features The statue has typical elements of Gothic sculpture: Posture: The slight arching of the "S" (opposed) body is characteristic of the period. Draping: The robes have deep, angular folds that give volume and movement to the figure. Crown: The presence of the crown suggests her status as "queen" among the martyrs or a noble origin, as often portrayed in art of the period. Similar works in basswood often date from the 15th or 16th century, produced by French, German, or Central European schools. This sculpture probably dates to the 19th century Neo-Gothic period. H.70 cm -w.27 cm -d.18 cm