SAINT MARTIN Germany, 15th century Wood, remains... Lot 11

SAINT MARTIN Germany, 15th century Wood, remains of polychromy Good condition H. 85 cm PROVENANCE Collection number on the back 26757 This statue, hollowed out on the back, has preserved beautiful remains of polychromy. His red hat with a wide green brim is that of a traveller. However, he looks proud and noble with his short fur-lined tunic, belted at the waist, and his low, flat shoes with pointed toes, in the fashion of the 15th century. Our saint is distinguished by his particularly piercing eyes. His hair and beard, styled in thin, flowing strands, frame a face with vigorous features, a well-defined nose, prominent cheekbones and slightly sunken cheeks. His only attribute seems to be his cloak, which he holds firmly in his left hand while he raises the index finger of his right hand. This could be St. Martin, shown here without his mount. Martin was born in Pannonia in 315, the son of a Roman officer. Although he was converted to Christianity, he took up a military career like his father. But one day, while in garrison near Amiens, he offered half his coat to a poor man. The next night he saw Christ in a dream wearing his cloak. He left the army to follow his faith, was baptized in Poitiers and founded a first monastery in Ligugé before being elected bishop of Tours.