Not currently on display at the V&A

Figure

15th century (made)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

This decorative and emblematic brass figure was probably originally part of a chandelier. Church and cathedral chandeliers were often extraordinarily elaborate and were a true test of the brass founders' greatest skills.

The figure was probably made in Germany in the period 1400-1500. It is likely that it was made in Nuremberg where, before 1600, European brass manufacture flourished and councils fiercely protected the local trade.


Object details

Categories
Object type
Materials and techniques
Brass
Brief description
Brass figure from the top of a chandelier, of a man in a loin cloth with his right hand raised and his left hand drooping, German, 15th century
Physical description
Figure from the top of a chandelier of a wild man, naked except for a loin cloth, with his right hand raised to brandish a club and with his left hand drooping to support a shield. Both the club and shield are missing.
Dimensions
  • Height: 6in
Credit line
Given by Dr W.L. Hildburgh
Subject depicted
Summary
This decorative and emblematic brass figure was probably originally part of a chandelier. Church and cathedral chandeliers were often extraordinarily elaborate and were a true test of the brass founders' greatest skills.

The figure was probably made in Germany in the period 1400-1500. It is likely that it was made in Nuremberg where, before 1600, European brass manufacture flourished and councils fiercely protected the local trade.
Collection
Accession number
M.102-1953

About this object record

Explore the Collections contains over a million catalogue records, and over half a million images. It is a working database that includes information compiled over the life of the museum. Some of our records may contain offensive and discriminatory language, or reflect outdated ideas, practice and analysis. We are committed to addressing these issues, and to review and update our records accordingly.

You can write to us to suggest improvements to the record.

Suggest feedback

Record createdFebruary 9, 2004
Record URL
Download as: JSONIIIF Manifest