Veit Stoss: Mary's Altar

Veit Stoss: Mary`s Altar By Adam Bujak The album by one of the best Polish photographer devoted to the famous Gothic Altar in Cracow. The dimensions of Mary's Altar (height about 13 m, width almost 11 m) place it firstand foremost among preserved Gothic retabules. With the moving wings, the iconographic programme of the altar may be changed, adjusted to the liturgy. On ordinary days, the so-called ferialna scene is displayed (with the cabinet closed), while during joyous ceremonies the wings are opened and worshippers can see the splendid scene. The scenes which constitute the altar convey, in general, the evangelical story chronicling the expiation of the world by Jesus Christ. The well-preserved, due to the dedication of the Cracow parish church, foreground displays Mary in Her capacity as mother of the Son of God and Her contribution tothe act of Salvation. Stoss was a keen observer of reality and could uniquely portray people of different age and status as well as accurately depict their feelings. This is perfectly shown in the figures of the apostles, who were mature or old, with bony or swollen, wrinkled faces which contrast with the subtle, delicate smooth face of the Virgin Mary. Observe their hands. Typically for Stoss' scultures, they are moving, captured in gesticulation, often violent. Veit Stoss, as if directing a truly mysterious performance, managed to stage the holy story in brilliant fashion. Whoever has seen Mary's Altar cannot have any doubts about it. Publishing House: Bialy Kruk, Kraków 2007 HardCover book measuring 9.5" x 10.9" x 0.5" 104 pages English Language Version