Artefact and marvel of nature

The focal point of the catalogue is the Ludwig collection’s or , a chandelier incorporating a woman’s semi-naked torso: originating in the 14th century, these light fittings, which featured a wooden figure and antlers, remained very popular right up to the Baroque period. Important wood carvers like Tilman Riemenschneider, Veit Stoß and Jörg Lederer created the sculptures for these hunting trophies; well-known artists like Master Bertram and Hieronymus Bosch produced the multi-coloured paintings. In addition to discussing form and iconography, technology, the conditions leading to the creation of such works and the contexts of space and function, a list of all currently known antler light fittings provides a comprehensive overview of this fascinating art form.