On the trail of reliquaries and saints. A new approach to the art of the Middle Ages

The invocation of saints and the veneration of relics played a major role in the religious life of the Middle Ages. The possession of the physical remains of saints gave worshippers the chance to get very close to these figures who were already in eternal union with God. For these relics, artists created precious reliquaries, ranging from small boxes decorated with gold and precious stones to the famous Cologne Ursula Busts. Wherever Christ was depicted in a work of art, there were also representations of the Virgin and the saints. The generous loan from Braunfels Castle can be regarded in this context. The panel painting from c. 1440 shows the Adoration of the Magi, whose vessels for gifts resemble reliquaries.

The subject of this year’s exhibition in the series “Museum Schnütgen – In Focus” traces these depictions throughout the world of medieval art. This special exhibition is also part of a step-by-step rearrangement of the museum’s permanent collection. As part of this process, the works of art will be put into a new contextual framework which can be explored through a new multi-media guide.