Punto di interesse
Main altar
A wooden composition depicting the Baptism of Christ, with columns and figures from both Testaments.
Lingua dei contenuti
The Baptism of Christ in the River Jordan fills the centre of the altar. John the Baptist stands beside Jesus, while Moses, Aaron and the apostles Peter and Paul flank the composition. Figures from the Old and New Testaments come together in a work whose theme relates to the church’s dedication to the Holy Trinity.
The altar was made in 1752-1753 by the sculptor August Gottfried Hoffmann, who also created the pulpit. Work on the new furnishings accompanied the centenary of the church’s foundation. This is therefore not the altar that stood here at the first service.
Six wooden Corinthian columns provide a monumental setting. Painted to resemble marble, with gilded bases and capitals, they gave timber the appearance of costly materials. Above the baptismal group are the dove of the Holy Spirit and the Eye of Providence.
The lower part depicts the Last Supper. At the top stands the Lamb with a banner, on a book with seven seals. The altar combines Gospel scenes with imagery from Revelation, its decoration extending both outwards and upwards.
Per bambini
At the centre of the altar is the Baptism of Jesus. Biblical figures stand around it, including Moses and the apostles. Six grand columns are made of wood, painted to look like marble. Some parts were covered with gold.
August Gottfried Hoffmann carved the altar in the eighteenth century. Below is the Last Supper; high above it are a Lamb with a banner and a book with seven seals. Each scene or symbol tells part of a biblical story. The decorations were meant to communicate ideas as well as look beautiful.
Domanda 1 di 2
What scene is at the centre of the altar?
- Posizione
- Eastern part of the interior, Altar Hall; viewed from the visitor area.