Corbel ornamented with a portrait bust of Konrad of Einbeck
Konrad of Einbeck’s sculptural work represents a unique phenomenon in German art at the end of 14th and beginning of 15th century. His work differs from others in the „beautiful style“ in that it appears somewhat harsh but is always focused on reflecting the individuality of the subject. Given his efforts to emphasise individual characteristics, it is no surprise that the corbel made in 1410 and decorated with a portrait bust was interpreted as a self-portrait of the artist again and again. The self-portrait is believed to have originated in the portrait-busts of the triforium in the cathedral of Prague. However, both the lapse of time and the form of the figure make it difficult to confirm this opinion and such views are often expressed by people who do not believe that the bust is a portrait but rather a figure bust roughly comparable to that of Hans Stethaimer in Landshut. In any case, the viewer is confronted by a self-confident man with a craggy face and clear, staring eyes. It is a face that one remembers.