Saint John the Evangelist 1450 - 1470

This is a limestone sculpture of Saint John the Evangelist, which was made in the Southern Netherlands, most likely in the fifteenth century. Such sculptures were commissioned by wealthy families and religious institutions to furnish chapels and churches. The figure of John, identifiable through the chalice, is an expression of religious devotion, but it also conveys social and cultural values. The refined carving and elegant pose reflect the aesthetic sensibilities of the period. As an Evangelist, John was believed to be an authoritative source of religious teachings. The prevalence of sculptures like these highlights the important role of religious institutions in shaping cultural identities at the time. Historical archives and ecclesiastical records can reveal more about patronage networks and workshop practices of the time. By exploring these sources, we gain insights into the complex relationship between art, religion, and society in the medieval Netherlands.