Aartsengel Michaël als zielenweger c. 1510 - 1520

This limewood sculpture of the Archangel Michael as a soul-weigher was carved by the Master of Ottobeuren. Limewood, favored by sculptors throughout the medieval period, is prized for its fine grain, which allows for intricate detail. Look closely, and you'll see just how skillfully the artist worked this material. Limewood is relatively soft, so it is receptive to shaping with chisels and gouges, and favored for creating expressive forms. Notice the folds of the Archangel’s cloak, his detailed armor, and the delicate rendering of his hair. You can imagine the sculptor patiently removing thin layers of wood, revealing the figure within the block, investing countless hours of labor in the process. The unpainted surface enhances the wood's natural warmth and texture, contributing to its immediacy. The sculpture represents a convergence of technical mastery, material sensibility, and cultural significance. It invites us to look beyond conventional art historical categories and recognize the value of skilled making.