Tilman Riemenschneider | |
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![]() Supposed self-portrait of Tilman Riemenschneider | |
Born | c. 1460 Heiligenstadt im Eichsfeld, Holy Roman Empire |
Died | Würzburg, Holy Roman Empire | 7 July 1531
Nationality | German |
Occupation | sculptor |
Years active | c. 1473 until 1527 |
Known for | limewood altarpieces |
Tilman Riemenschneider (c. 1460 – 7 July 1531) was a German woodcarver and sculptor active in Würzburg from 1483. He was one of the most prolific and versatile sculptors of the transition period between the Late Gothic, to which he essentially belonged, and Northern Renaissance art, a master in limewood and stone. He was also a local politician in the council of Würzburg.
Most of his subjects are religious, including several very large and spectacular carved wood altarpieces, as well as tombs in stone, and statues. He was largely forgotten soon after his death, but rediscoved by art historians in the 19th century.