Hans Kellner
Nuremberg, 1603/1609
Silver, parcel-gilt, precious stones and minerals, coral
35,0 x 27,0 x 18,1 cm
Inv.-Nr. R 2488
From Marienberg Fortress, Würzburg, transferred in 1856
Gallery 27
This group from the seat of the Prince-Bishops of Würzburg exemplifies the Kunstkammer piece par excellence. Cast in silver, the two figures are in a setting which is entirely composed of raw materials left in their natural state: the Tree of Knowledge is a branch of coral and the earth is made up of various minerals. An autonomous ensemble, the composition represents the contemporary view of the unity of nature and art.