Saint Nicholas

Abstract

This life-size statue of Saint Nicholas was created circa 1600. The saint is depicted wearing a bishop’s attire, consisting of a long gown and a mitre. He raises his right hand with his index finger touching his thumb, a sign of blessing. He carries a book with three gold balls in his left hand. The balls are symbolic of the money bags he gave to three poor women. According to a legend, a poor man had three daughters, all of whom did not have dowries for weddings. As a result, the poor man suggested that his daughters turn towards prostitution to help pay for their settlements. Learning about this unfortunate situation, Saint Nicholas left three money bags in their home. Some of the paint has chipped off the bishop’s mitre and pedestal; however, the sculpture remains in good condition. Photograph(s) licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.