SS. Sebastian, Nicholas Of Myra and Anthony Of Egypt

Originally part of a late-medieval German altarpiece, this panel probably depicts three of the Fourteen Holy Helpers (Vierzehnheiligen), the subject of a popular devotion in Germany and central Europe. The saints are identified both by their names at the bottom of the panel and by their attributes, which allowed the illiterate to identify the figures. As well as being pierced by arrows, Sebastian is depicted as the risen Christ with beard and open red mantle. Nicholas, Bishop of Myra, carries three golden spheres on his book. St Anthony of Egypt, a hermit, is identified by a tau cross on his robe and a pig. The faces are particularly well painted, suggesting a master painter who was exposed to the Renaissance influence. The figures, clothing and attributes are executed in the Gothic style by minor painters, as was the custom. The background is skilfully gilded to resemble a damask cloth of gold hanging. Upper Rhine region.