Artwork

Wettenhauser Hochaltar: Ausgießung des Heiligen Geistes Rückseite: ehemals Relief mit Anbetung der Könige

Wettenhauser Hochaltar: Ausgießung des Heiligen Geistes Rückseite: ehemals Relief mit Anbetung der Könige is an unspecified painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Martin Schaffner. It dates from 1523 and is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections.

About this work

Overview

The Wettenhauser Hochaltar is a painting created by Martin Schaffner in 1523. It is a religious work depicting a significant biblical scene.

Subject & Meaning

The painting shows a group gathered around a central female figure, reacting with surprise or curiosity. A dove descends from above, suggesting a divine event, likely the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

Technique & Style

Schaffner's use of chiaroscuro creates a dramatic effect, with warm colors in the foreground contrasting with cooler tones in the background. The scene blends Northern European traditions with emerging influences from Italian art.

History & Provenance

The Wettenhauser Hochaltar is held in the Alte Pinakothek's collection. Schaffner, active in Ulm, trained under Jörg Stocker and became a master by 1499, specializing in religious-themed works.

Artist & collection

Artist

Martin Schaffner

Martin Schaffner (c. 1478 – c. 1548) was a German painter and medallist. Schaffner was born, lived and worked primarily in Ulm. His birth year is calculated based on a self-portrait medal he created in 1522 in which he…