Lot 1451 Dα

Mechelen circa 1530/1540

A Mechelen wooden figure of Saint Ursula, circa 1530/1540

Carved three-quarters in the round, the reverse flattened. With presumably partially overpainted original polychromy. A figure of the saint standing in elegant contrapposto and dressed in opulent contemporary fashion, designed for a frontal viewpoint. The saint holds an open book in one hand and an arrow as a symbol of her martyrdom in her hands. Two diminutive figures from her retinue of 10,000 virgins can be seen seeking protection beneath her long cloak. The reverse of the piece bears the city mark of Mechelen.
Loosely attached to the original plinth, the arrow also loosely attached. Minimal wear. Height 34 cm (with plinth).