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Saint Paul

Circle of Claus de Werve Netherlandish
ca. 1420–30
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 305
According to medieval artistic conventions, Saint Paul is traditionally identified by his bald head and long beard, a sword, the instrument of his martyrdom, and a book, representing his writings. While working within a specified tradition, this Burgundian sculptor invested his carved Saint Paul with exceptional vitality and intelligence. Paul’s left knee pushes against the fabric of his robe, suggesting a relaxed, but attentive posture. His inclined head and furrowed brow project a sense of resolute determination and quiet solemnity. These qualities were especially important for a statue that presided over a private chapel, where the saint served as a heavenly advocate for the de Plaine family.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Saint Paul
  • Artist: Circle of Claus de Werve (Netherlandish, active in France, ca. 1380–1439, active Burgundy, 1396–ca. 1439)
  • Date: ca. 1420–30
  • Geography: Made in Poligny, Burgundy, France
  • Culture: French
  • Medium: Limestone with traces of paint
  • Dimensions: Overall: 47 1/4 x 25 1/2 x 12 in. (120 x 64.8 x 30.5 cm)
  • Classification: Sculpture-Stone
  • Credit Line: Mrs. Stephen V. Harkness Fund, 1922
  • Object Number: 22.31.1
  • Curatorial Department: Medieval Art and The Cloisters

Audio

Cover Image for 85. Body Language: Curators and Theater Director: Saint Paul, Part 1

85. Body Language: Curators and Theater Director: Saint Paul, Part 1

Gallery 305

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NARRATOR: Look carefully at the position of Saint Paul's head.

GRIFFITH MANN: The slight tilting of his head helps to create that sense that there is a kind of living presence. You know, you tilt your head when you're engaged in conversation, when you're thinking. And at the same time, the gaze is so steady, penetrating. There's something resolute and committed in the way that he looks out from his position.

NARRATOR: The pose also provides clues to the sculpture's original setting in a family chapel in Burgundy.

GRIFFITH MANN: He is sort of leaning out a little bit. The inclined head not only gives you a sense of mental presence, but also makes the face more visible for anyone looking at this sculpture from the ground. In fact, he probably was part of a larger architectural ensemble that would have been presented high above our heads.

NARRATOR: Hear cellist and composer Joan Jeanrenaud respond to this sculpture in music. Press PLAY.

    Listen to more about this artwork

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Attributed to Claus de Werve (Netherlandish, active in France, ca. 1380–1439, active Burgundy, 1396–ca. 1439)
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ca. 1480
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ca. 1475–1500
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