196. Statues of the Founders Ekkehard and Uta,

eastern chancel, c. 1260-1270.

Naumburg Cathedral, Naumburg. Gothic.

 

 

The traces of paint and gilding that survive on this sculpted pair add to their lifelikeness. Count Ekkehard stands proudly, covered by a long cloak and carrying a sword and shield. Countess Uta gazes off in the same direction as Ekkehard, her expression strong and noble. She gathers her cape against her face as if to ward off the cold. Through the drape of the cape, the bend of her arm is visible. Her crown sparkles on her head. The pair is affixed to pillars in a chapel in the choir of the Naumburg Cathedral. Ekkehard and Uta were patrons of the Cathedral who lived in the eleventh century, long before these images were carved. Nevertheless, the sculptures have a remarkably portrait-like quality, suggesting that the sculptor carved them to resemble actual models.