Isenheim Altarpiece

Timeline

1. 1512–1516Isenheim · IsenheimThe Antonine order was renowned for treating 'Saint Anthony's fire' (ergotism) and skin diseases. Prior Guy Guers commissioned Grünewald to paint an openable polyptych, with Nikolaus of Haguenau responsible for the central woodcarving. The closed panel's Christ with ulcerated body corresponds to patients' symptoms, making the altarpiece both a devotional image and a tool for medical meditation.
2. 1516–1792Isenheim Antonine order hospital chapel · IsenheimOn ordinary days it was displayed closed showing the Crucifixion and Lamentation; on feast days it opened to reveal the angelic concert, Madonna and Child, and the Resurrection's brilliant colors; the innermost layer revealed woodcarvings of Saint Anthony, Saint Augustine, and Saint Jerome along with side wings of the Anthony legend. This layered opening combined the church calendar, the order's patron saint, and hospital care into a single liturgical device, remaining in the monastery until the Revolution.
3. 1792Colmar Unterlinden Museum · ColmarIn 1792 the altarpiece was moved from Isenheim for protection; in 1852 it entered the newly founded Unterlinden Museum, thereafter becoming one of Alsace's most famous artistic pilgrimage sites. It was relocated during the upheavals of the 20th century, and from 2018–2022 the paintings, sculptures, and frames underwent complete restoration, re-presenting the original color layers.