
May one see it?
London, United Kingdom
On public display.
This is an alabaster statuette of St. Peter, made in Germany in about 1560-1570. This and its companion piece representing St. Paul (V&A Mus-number 6987-1860) probably formed part of an altarpiece and would have flanked either the Crucifix or the Virgin. Both apostles represent the joint founders of the Christian Church.
Alabaster, a fine grained form of gypsum, is a smooth marble-like stone that was popular for the carving of religious sculpture. Softer than marble, it was much easier to carve and also considerably cheaper.
Victoria and Albert Museum