Reliquary Bust of St. Barbara (Primary Title)

Unknown (Artist)

late 15th–early 16th century
German
polychromed and gilded oak
Germany,Rhineland, Cologne
Overall: 21 3/4 × 12 3/4 × 8 1/2 in. (55.25 × 32.39 × 21.59 cm)
75.38
Not on view
St. Barbara was murdered by her father because she became a Christian. He was struck dead by lightning in return, and St. Barbara became the saint invoked for protection from sudden storms. Originally this bust held a holy relic in an opening at the top of the head. Two other openings on the figure’s chest were added later.
Adolph D. and Wilkins C. Williams Fund
Image released via Creative Commons CC-BY-NC

Some object records are not complete and do not reflect VMFA's full and current knowledge. VMFA makes routine updates as records are reviewed and enhanced.