Archbishop Anno of Cologne

(c. 1010-1075)

In the Middle Ages, Cologne’s archbishops and archchancellors for Italy held extensive secular powers. Anno II, Archbishop of Cologne from 1056-75, also used his influence to reach power-political objectives. Intermittently, he seized the regency over the German Reich. Anno, who was canonised in 1183, helped promote regional art by founding monasteries and foundations in the diocese of Cologne, including St. George in Cologne and St. Michael in Siegburg.

Red- beige chasuble with embroidery in the shape of a cross on the front.

Chasuble of St. Anno, vestment fabric: silk, Byzantium, c. 1000, borders: “Kölner Borten” (Cologne Orphreys), Cologne, mid-15th cent., 146 x 112 cm, inv. no. P 1, © Museum Schnütgen, Photo: Thomas Zwillinger

Wooden sculpture of a man. His head is tilted, eyes closed. The figure has no arms and feet.

Crucifix from St. George, Cologne, last third of 11th cent., willow, 189.5 x 52 cm, inv. no. A 9, © Rheinisches Bildarchiv

Stone sculpture of Mary with crown. Her right hand is raised, her left hand holds the baby Jesus. The image is not complete: On the sides the stone is broken off.

Siegburg Madonna, Cologne, third quarter of the 12th cent., limestone, h. 41 cm, inv. no. K 10 a, b, © Rheinisches Bildarchiv

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