Objekt 2122
Fierce implementation of the Reformation
Description
In 1517 Martin Luther published his theses against the Papal Church, heralding
the Reformation. In Basel, too, clergymen began preaching according to
the new doctrines. While the city council tolerated both religious persuasions,
the craft guilds called for a clear ruling in favour of the Reformation.
The dispute escalated in 1529, finding its catharsis in violent iconoclasm.
Innumerable works of sacred art were destroyed. The followers of the
old doctrine fled and the reformed liturgy was officially established in
Basel.
Object description
Fragment of a stone sculpture, probably Saint Leopold III
site: former Zunfthaus zum Himmel, Freie Strasse 33, probably from the St. Bernhardskapelle, which was desecrated after the Reformation, c. 1380/1420
Wiesentaler variegated sandstone, set
donated by Aktiengesellschaft Magazine zum ‘Wilden Mann’, Basel
Inv. 1911.1751.