Die Heiligen Magdalena und Barbara

Friedrich Herlin's panel of Saints Magdalene and Barbara likely formed part of the wings of one of his major altarpiece programmes — possibly the Nördlingen high altarpiece of 1462, which survives in fragmentary form. Both saints are shown as elegantly dressed figures carrying their attributes: Magdalene her ointment jar, Barbara her tower. Herlin's female saint types reflect a sophisticated Flemish influence, with close attention to textile surfaces and physiognomic refinement uncommon in South German painting before his generation.

The two saints are rendered against a gold tooled ground with careful differentiation of textile surfaces — Magdalene's rich garment contrasts with Barbara's more austere dress. Herlin's modelling of faces shows knowledge of Van der Weyden's portrait conventions, with three-quarter views and fine hatching in the shadows. The panel preserves substantial areas of original gilding.