Martyrdom Of Saint Agatha Of Catania, Wooden Bas-relief, Carved And Painted, Tyrol, Circa 1800

The Martyrdom of Saint Agatha of Catania

Tyrol, probably the Innsbruck region, circa 1800

Softwood carved in bas-relief and polychromed. A large composition featuring numerous figures depicting the martyrdom of Saint Agatha. The saint, her upper body bare, is being tortured by two executioners; one of whom is pressing an instrument against her chest, evoking the saint’s characteristic form of torture. In the center, an armed soldier stands within an arcaded structure, while on the right several figures watch the scene. In the upper section, on a platform bordered by a balustrade, a dignitary presides over the torture—likely Quintianus, the Roman governor and persecutor of Agatha.

A particularly expressive composition, organized in several planes in the manner of a theatrical staging. A fine example of Tyrolean folk sculpture from the late 18th or early 19th century, retaining much of its original polychromy.

Tyrol, probably Innsbruck and the surrounding region, circa 1800. Carved and polychromed soft wood.
Age-related wear and damage; polychromy partially worn with some losses.