This figure of Saint Sebastian is not yet attributed to a known maker or workshop. Yet it is a striking example of the late Gothic or early Renaissance design and workmanship prevalent in South Germany in the second half of the 15th century. It retains many elements found in earlier 15th century South German carving such as the handling of the leaves on the tree, the stiff contrapposto stance of Saint Sebastian and the angular treatment of his torso. Yet it's large size and the bravura carving of the flowing cloth drapery and the widely extended arms also indicate a confident and knowledgeable artist or workshop. And one that was certainly familiar with the innovative work being produced throughout the regions of Franconia, Swabia and Bavaria during this period. As there was constant movement of journeymen and designs between cities and workshops it is likely that the author of the present piece was aware of the great carvers and their work, specifically those pieces by Tilman Riemenschneider and Veit Stoss, who were able to model movement and emotion in a newly dynamic and modern way.