Reformation altarpiece [Predella]: The Sermon (recto)

Martin Luther's sermon is shown on the recto of the predella. This motif was frequently represented in Lutheran church art because the reformer highly valued the proclamation of the gospel and public ministry [...]. However, its position on the altarpiece is novel. [...] It is depicted in a very bright and puristic room giving the scene an almost visionary character. From the viewer's perspective Martin Luther is shown on the right, wearing a robe and standing in a refectory pulpit. The pulpit is supported by an architectural element decorated with acanthus leaves and heads of putti. The balustrade is decorated with a wild boar's head and a man's head intertwined with vines. Luther's face is similar to the woodcut portrait of the reformer, which accompanied his epitaph, printed in 1546.

The central point with respect to both content and composition is the image of Christ crucified, which is positioned between the preacher of God's word and the absorbed congregation. The body of the suffering savior hangs on a T-shaped cross, the inscription 'INRI` is visible on a plaque above his head. The crown of thorns rests on his head, which is inclined towards his right shoulder. Christ's pained face and tortured body are covered with drops of blood. A loin cloth bulges out around his hips with the ends fluttering, while blood streams from the wound in his side.

[Zdunczyk, in: Harasimowicz, Seyderhelm 2015, 79]