The Wings of the Wurzach Altar * Hans Multscher

The composition presents a central figure seated upon what appears to be a sarcophagus or stone slab, dominating the visual field. This individual, identifiable by his long hair and beard, is clad in a vibrant red garment that draws immediate attention. He holds aloft a tall, slender cross, its form echoing the verticality of the scene. His right hand is raised in a gesture suggestive of blessing or admonishment.
Flanking this central figure are two additional men, positioned on either side. The man to the left reclines against the sarcophagus, his posture conveying weariness and contemplation. He wears an elaborate helmet and armor, hinting at a military background. To the right, another man kneels in apparent distress or supplication, his face obscured by shadow and his garments draped dramatically. A sword lies discarded near him, further emphasizing his vulnerability.
The setting is rendered with meticulous detail. Lush vegetation – trees, shrubs, and grasses – encroaches upon the stone structure, softening its harshness and suggesting a connection to nature’s cycle of life and death. The background features a rocky outcrop and more foliage, creating depth within the scene. A muted color palette prevails, punctuated by the striking red of the central figures robe.
The arrangement of figures and objects suggests a narrative moment steeped in religious significance. The presence of the sarcophagus implies themes of mortality and resurrection. The cross serves as an unambiguous symbol of sacrifice and redemption. The gestures and postures of the men – the blessing, the contemplation, the supplication – convey a range of emotions that invite reflection on faith, suffering, and divine intervention.
The artist’s attention to detail in rendering both the human figures and the natural environment indicates a desire to create a scene of profound emotional resonance. The compositions balance between stillness and implied action contributes to its overall sense of solemnity and spiritual weight.