CANON HENRY OSKENS

d.1535, Victoria and Albert Museum, London, England

Rubbing size: 34" X 25"

Colour: Gold on Black

Price: $75(US)

The history of this fine brass is obscure. Early in the 19th century it was seen in the Archdiocesan Museum at Cologne. Neither name nor arms suggest that he was of noble birth, and he was not a member of the cathedral Chapter. In Cologne there were a number of Stiftkirche, churches possessing canons and chapters, and it may be that he was a member of one of these which did not require proof of nobility for membership.

The inscription may be translated:"Henry Oskens, Canter and Canon on this Church, had me made while he was living, pray for him. He died A.D.1535 the last day of November."

The brass is finely engraved, and has extensive traces of the colouring applied to the whole surface. The lettering shows Flemish influence but it was probably made in Cologne.