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University of Greifswald returns valuable wooden figures to Gristow!
On December 7, 2025, the University of Greifswald will return two late Gothic figures to the Gristow parish.
University of Greifswald returns valuable wooden figures to Gristow!
An admirable moment for the Gristow parish is approaching: The University of Greifswald is presenting the community with two late Gothic wooden figures - a Mary with child and a John. These historically valuable works of art originally come from the church in Gristow and are now returning to their place of origin. How uni-greifswald.de reported, the ceremonial presentation of the figures will take place on December 7, 2025, on the second Advent, in the church of Gristow.
The community's desire to get the figures back led to the approval of the return by the university as the owner. This decision was made at the request of the Theological Faculty. The wooden sculptures are part of the Victor Schultze Collection, which is known for its historical and artistic values.
The history of wooden figures
The exact circumstances under which the figures came into the possession of the university are unclear, but it is known that they may have been added to the collection before 1902. At the end of the 19th century, more precisely in the parish directory from 1902, the figures are no longer listed. Interestingly, the John figure is referred to as “Apostle” in the inventory card.
It should be noted that both works have lost color over the years and show minor damage, which reduces their material value. But that doesn't seem to be able to dampen the community's enthusiasm. They plan to present the figures high on the north wall of the church and thus ensure that they remain visible to visitors.
Victor Schultze and his collection
Let's take a look at the background of the Victor Schultze collection. Victor Schultze, born on December 13, 1851, was not only a competent theologian, but also a pioneer in Christian archaeology. He is considered the founder of this area of science in Protestant theology. He has left his mark on many important institutions and research in this field and is also the reason why the University of Greifswald today houses such a remarkable collection of medieval and ecclesiastical art. Among the most important works are: his work “Archaeological Studies on Early Christian Monuments” (1880) and the book about the catacombs.
The fact that the community can now also receive the third figure, which is currently on display in the Bode Museum in Berlin, on loan, adds an exciting dimension to the whole thing. In this way, the original ensemble could be brought back together, which is of great importance for both the community and art lovers.
The Gristow parish cordially invites all media representatives to take part in the solemn service on December 7, 2025 between 10:00 and 11:00 a.m. The comeback of these wooden figures is not only a return of art, but also a return of stories and memories that have accompanied the community over many decades.