Herlin-Altar

Nestled in the charming town of Bopfingen, Baden-Württemberg, the Herlin-Altar in the St. Blasius Church is a masterpiece of late Gothic art that promises to captivate visitors with its intricate details and historical significance. This exquisite altarpiece, crafted by the renowned artist Friedrich Herlin in 1472, stands as a testament to the rich artistic heritage of the region and the spiritual devotion of its patrons.

The History of the Herlin-Altar

The Herlin-Altar was commissioned by the Abbess of the Cistercian convent Mariä Himmelfahrt in Kirchheim am Ries, who held the patronage rights over the parish church of St. Blasius. The church itself dates back to around 1100, dedicated to St. Blasius, one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers. The altar was designed to enshrine a relic of St. Blasius, gifted by Count Johann of Helfenstein in 1465, drawing pilgrims seeking healing and spiritual solace.

Friedrich Herlin, inspired by the great Netherlandish masters such as Rogier van der Weyden and Jan van Eyck, brought his vision to life with the help of skilled craftsmen. The altar's creation was a collaborative effort, with Herlin focusing on the paintings and other artisans contributing to the intricate wood carvings. His signature can still be seen on the lower frame of the outer wings, marking this work as one of his most significant accomplishments.

The Outer Wings

When closed, the Herlin-Altar presents scenes from the life of St. Blasius. The left panel depicts St. Blasius, dressed as a bishop, being captured by the Roman governor's soldiers in Sebaste. A poignant moment unfolds as a woman pleads for the saint's intervention after a wolf has taken her pig. Through prayer, St. Blasius miraculously saves the pig, symbolized by the wolf releasing its prey. The backdrop is a medieval cityscape reminiscent of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where Herlin had previously worked.

The right panel illustrates the martyrdom of St. Blasius, bound to a gallows and tortured with spikes. Yet, even in captivity, the saint's compassion shines through as the grateful woman he helped earlier brings him sustenance. The vivid storytelling and the luxurious attire of the figures reflect the fashion and artistic sensibilities of the late Middle Ages.

The Inner Wings

Opening the altar reveals the inner panels, which are dedicated to the Nativity and the Adoration of the Magi. The left panel captures the serene moment of Christ's birth, with the infant Jesus lying at Mary's feet. Joseph stands nearby, holding a candle, while two midwives offer their assistance. The setting is a dilapidated yet majestic room, symbolizing the transient nature of earthly power, with a cityscape in the background echoing Rothenburg ob der Tauber's medieval charm.

The right panel showcases the Magi, resplendent in their regal attire, presenting gifts to the Christ Child. They symbolize the diverse ages and continents, highlighting the universal significance of the event. The city backdrop is consistent with the left panel, providing continuity and depth to the narrative.

The Central Sculptures

The heart of the Herlin-Altar is its central section, adorned with sculptures attributed to an Upper Rhine artist influenced by Niclas Gerhaert van Leyden. At the center, Mary sits enthroned, offering a grape to the Christ Child, a symbol of the Eucharist. Angels surround them, crowning Mary and holding her cloak, enhancing the divine aura.

Flanking them are figures of St. Blasius, depicted saving a child from choking on a fishbone, and St. Christopher, carrying the Christ Child across a river. These figures embody the protective and miraculous aspects of these saints, resonating deeply with the faithful.

The Predella

Beneath the main panels lies the predella, originally intended to house relics visible to pilgrims through an iron grille. Today, it features 15th-century carved figures of Jesus and the Twelve Apostles, adding another layer of spiritual and artistic richness to the altar.

The Herlin-Altar is more than a religious artifact; it is a window into the cultural and spiritual life of late medieval Germany. Its intricate artistry and profound symbolism offer a glimpse into a world where faith and art intertwined seamlessly, making it a must-see for anyone visiting Bopfingen. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or a spiritual seeker, the Herlin-Altar promises an unforgettable journey through time and devotion.