Home altar of the Annunciation of Mary

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Home altar of the Annunciation of Mary
  • Type of object:
  • Measurements (H/W/D):86 cm / 40 cm / 8 cm
  • Materials & Techniques:

  • Inscriptions & Markings:

  • Date or Period:

  • Maker:
  • Subject:

    Polychrome wooden altar

  • Title:Home altar of the Annunciation of Mary
  • Distinguishing Features:

    There is moderate dirt accumulation across the object. The paint is markedly deteriorated. There are wormholes in the upper middle part. There is a moderate crack in the wood, extending vertically across the retable (the central scene on the altar), in between the two figures.

The polychrome wooden altar of the Annunciation of Mary was carved in the 17th century. The altar consists of a stipes, a central section (retable) with figures on consoles on both sides, and an attic with a lace-like carved crown. Below the stipes is a narrow, stepped base, and the antependium is decorated with a relief depicting two female figures - St. Margaret with a dragon, pointing with her left hand to the other figure - St. Barbara, who holds a chalice in her right hand, and a sword in her left hand. The sides of the stipes are decorated with herm heads, which help support the upper, central part of the altar. The retable (central part) is decorated with a relief depicting the Annunciation in high relief – on the left there is a human figure with wings, an angel, with his hands crossed on his chest. On the right is a female figure (Mary) sitting on a throne with her hands folded in prayer and placed on her stomach. Between the figures there is a desk with a book. Above the scene is a figure of a baby in a halo and surrounded by clouds. The central part of the altarpiece is flanked by two figures on consoles – female figure (Mary) on the left, and a male figure (John the Evangelist) on the right. The attic (top section) of the altar is decorated with a relief depicting God the Father (a male figure shown from the waist up). He is gesturing a blessing with his right hand, while his left is resting on the globe. On the very top of the altar is a cross entwined with thorns, and on the sides, it is accompanied by a decorative interweaving of ornamental motifs.

  • Object ID No.:

    NG P 75

  • Related Written Material:

  • Place of Origin/Discovery:

  • Cross Reference to Related Objects:

  • Date Documented:

    2025-06-12