The Kiss of Judas (Germany, 15th cent)

Exquisite walnut retable fragment with the kiss of Judas. Judas holds the purse with the 30 pieces of silver firmly in his hand while both hands of Jesus have already been tied up with a rope. However, He holds the right ear of Malchus (from Hebrew Melech) in His hands, ready to reattach it to the head of the man at His feet, who came to arrest Him (and whose right ear was hewn off by Petrus the apostle) thus performing His last miracle before His resurrection. Malchus is depicted with panic-stricken face, his lantern has fallen on the ground between his feet while turning the right part of his (earless) head towards us. Amidst all the betrayal, blood and drama we see - as a striking contrast – the serene expression of Jesus, in calm resignation and full awareness of what will come. Great narrative power and emotion with much attention to details and facial expression. High quality. Beautiful glossy patina on the walnut. No restaurations whatsoever. Some traces of xylophagi, wear and usure consistent with the age. Minor splits, arms of Malchus missing. Mounted on later stand. Dimensions (without stand): 46x16x9 cm. Good condition. Probably middle Rhine area. Remarkable piece.

Dimensions (without stand): 46x16x9 cm