Sabina von Steinbach: medieval sculptor of Strasbourg Cathedral
Sabina von Steinbach, a 13th-14th century sculptor, is credited with the allegorical figures of the Church and the Synagogue on the south portal of Strasbourg Cathedral. She worked alongside her father, master builder Erwin von Steinbach, and after his death likely assumed many of his responsibilities. Despite a lack of irrefutable documentary evidence, multiple modern-era sources support her authorship. She married Bernard von Sünder, a builder involved in Magdeburg Cathedral, and is also linked to works there and possibly at Notre Dame de Paris. Some scholars dispute her prominence due to insufficient documentation, but others argue that gender bias may downplay her role. The sculptures are noted for their exceptional execution, delicate carving, subtle contrapposto, and expressive beauty.
Key facts
- Sabina von Steinbach worked on Strasbourg Cathedral in the late 13th to early 14th century.
- Her father, Erwin von Steinbach, was the master builder of the cathedral.
- She is credited with the allegorical figures of the Church and the Synagogue on the south portal.
- After her father's death, she likely took over many of his responsibilities.
- She married Bernard von Sünder, a builder at Magdeburg Cathedral.
- Her presence at Notre Dame de Paris is suggested by some writings.
- No irrefutable documentary evidence confirms her role; most sources are from the modern era.
- The sculptures are praised for their delicate carving, contrapposto, and expressive beauty.
Entities
Artists
- Sabina von Steinbach
- Erwin von Steinbach
- Bernard von Sünder
- Moritz von Schwind
Institutions
- Strasbourg Cathedral
- Magdeburg Cathedral
- Notre Dame de Paris
- Alte Nationalgalerie
Locations
- Strasbourg
- France
- Magdeburg
- Germany
- Paris
- Berlin