Cecil Headlam
Peter Vischer
"Peter Vischer" by Cecil Headlam is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work serves as a monograph that delves into the life and contributions of the renowned German bronze-founder Peter Vischer, who holds a significant place in the transition from Gothic to Renaissance art in Germany. The book emphasizes Vischer's influence as a leading craftsman and explores not only his individual works but also those of his family, setting the context of artistic evolution in Nuremberg. The opening of the book introduces readers to the background of bronze work in Germany, particularly focusing on the early life of Hermann Vischer, Peter's father, who settled in Nuremberg around the mid-15th century. It outlines the flourishing environment of Nuremberg at the time, filled with opportunities for craftsmen due to its wealth and cultural aspirations. The text begins to trace the artistic lineage and the development of bronze artistry in the Vischer family while establishing Peter Vischer's identity as a master craftsman. Importantly, it sets the stage for a detailed examination of his oeuvre, illustrating how the Vischer family contributed significantly to the German Renaissance, culminating in monumental pieces like the Shrine of St. Sebald.