Veit Stoss (cc. 1450-1533): Virgin and Child with Pomegranate

1500-05
Copper engraving, 217 x 163 mm
Staatliche Graphische Sammlung, Munich



The engraving was perhaps a pre-study to a relief, or it might have been composed by the famous woodcarver and sculptor after an existing plastic work. Its style and its dynamic, rampant, ornamental drapery links it to the era of the High Altar of St. Mary in Cracow. The pomegranate is an antique symbol of love, immortality and redemption.