Lot 4170

Josef Thorak – "St. Peter with the keys to heaven"

Orders and Military Collectibles from 1919 onwards | A106r | Live auction | 852 Lots

Description

Early Thorak work in shell limestone from the 1930s, presented to Reichsbank construction director Prof. Heinrich Wolff as a token of gratitude for commissioned orders, for his Starnberg villa, which was also used as a doctor's surgery by Wolff's daughter. At Wolff's request, Thorak portrayed St. Peter kneeling, in a submissive posture, holding the keys in his left hand. Partly weathered and starting to crack. Height approx. 124 cm, estimated weight 300 - 350 kg. The statue is unsigned. According to the story handed down in the family, this was to conceal Thorak as creator of the work, probably for tax reasons. Also includes a valuation issued in 2024 by appraiser Dr. Phil. Martin of Würzburg in the amount of €20,000. A viewing of the piece in the Starnberg area may be arranged by appointment. Collection must be organised by the buyer.

Condition: III + Questions about the lot?

General Information

The auction starts on Friday, Nov 7, 2025 at 10 am (CET). Lot no. 4001 - 4868. The pre-sale view will take place from Oct 27 - to Oct 31 2025 in our auction rooms at Bretonischer Ring 3 in 85630 Grasbrunn / Munich from 11 am to 5 pm (CET). Please make an appointment if possible to avoid waiting times.