854 - St. Ambrose of Milan

St. Ambrose of Milan Baroque bust Wood, carved, silver-plated, and gilt Height 69.5 cm Patron saint of beekeepers St. Ambrose of Milan (c. 339-397) is one of the four great Latin Church Fathers. Initially serving in the Roman administration, he was elected Bishop of Milan in 374. As an influential theologian and preacher, he shaped the development of the Western Church. According to legend, a swarm of bees settled on his mouth when he was still a child without harming him. This was interpreted as an omen of his future eloquence and established his veneration as the patron saint of beekeepers. The carved half-figure depicts the saint with his bearded face turned upward and his hair falling across his forehead. His hands are held in front of his body, complementing his devout posture. A richly decorated cloak with a gilded border is fastened across the chest by a large clasp. The silver setting, which appears dark today, forms a striking contrast to the gilded sections. On the base, a beehive identifies the figure as Ambrose and simultaneously alludes to the legendary “sweetness” of his speech. The upward gaze and the exquisite design of the robe combine spiritual dignity with the expressive visual language of Baroque depictions of saints.