The sculptures of Spes and Fides on the high altar of the church of St Andrä in Graz
Type
Sculptural group
Critical History
Originally, the sculptures of Spes and Fides were situated in niches within the choir.1 Today they are located on top of the high altar, flanking a modern crucifix. The personification of Fides is standing on the left side with a golden cup in the right hand, while the other is stretched forward. Spes, on the other side, props an anchor, while the right forefinger points upwards. The opulent and refined drapery speaks for Straub; the same applies to the body composition. Only the execution of the faces suggests a workshop work.
Construction / Execution
The sculptures are made of carved wood. They stand on polygonal plinths.
Components
Sculpture
Author: (workshop) Philipp Jakob Straub
Completed: 1740 – 1750
Technique(s): wood carving
Material(s): wood
Polychromy
Completed: 1740 – 1750
Images
The sculpture of Spes on the high altar of the parish church St Andrä in Graz (photo by Anja Lindbichler, 2018)
The sculpture of Fides on the high altar of the parish church St Andrä in Graz (photo by Anja Lindbichler, 2018)
Catalogue entry prepared by Eva Klein and Christina Pichler
Recommended citation: Eva Klein and Christina Pichler, The sculptures of Spes and Fides on the high altar of the church of St Andrä in Graz , in: TrArS – Tracing the Art of the Straub Family, 2018, (accessed 26/01/2026) URL
Sources and Bibliography
Dehio. Die Kunstdenkmäler Österreichs. Graz, Wien, Verlag Anton Schroll & Co, 1979
