Crosier of Abbot Erkanbald
The upper part of a bishop’s crosier, the so-called curvatura (crook), is frequently a place of ornamental and figurative decoration. That is also true for a crosier in the cathedral treasure of Hildesheim. It is connected to the name of Erkanbald in history. Erkanbald was abbot of Fulda from 997 to 1011 and supported Heinrich II several times with his actions during this time. As a result, he was appointed archbishop of Mainz. The consecration of the new archbishop solemnized bishop Bernward of Hildesheim, a relative of Erkanbald. It is difficult to ascertain when Erkanbald used his crosier. Such crosiers are commonly used by abbots and bishops. It seems likely that this depicts a handing over with the consecration of an archbishop because Bernward of Hildesheim was well-known for his efforts to promote artistic works. Beyond that, a handing over during the consecration is quite probable because of the representation: the creation of Eve. She is brought to life by taking a rib away from the side of Adam. Adam is not asleep during this procedure, as related by Gen 2:21. instead, he is standing upright and watching the scene. An interpretation which can be found in some early theological documents, for example in documents of Hilarius of Poitiers, says: The sleep mentioned in the text is a visionary experience, a visionary state of mind, which gives Adam the opportunity to recognize his future with Eve as the future of God with his people. This interpretation of Eve’s creation makes the representations appropriate for an archbishop and his new function.