Christ on the Donkey (Palmesel)

myminifactory

This sculpture showcases Christ riding a majestic donkey, its hindquarters emblazoned with intricate carvings. Christ extends his hand in a classic gesture of benediction, bestowing blessings upon the masses. The Palmesel, or palm donkey, is a type of sculpture that dates back to the 12th century and was paraded through German towns as part of elaborate processions. These elaborate reenactments depicted Christ's triumphant entry into Jerusalem and metaphorically transformed each town into the revered holy city. However, during the tumultuous Reformation era, palm donkeys became frequent targets of iconoclastic fervor, deemed idols by zealous reformers who sought to eradicate all semblance of idolatry.