Altaarstuk van hout in de Sint-Leonarduskerk in Zoutleeuw, België before 1887

This wooden altarpiece resides in the Sint-Leonarduskerk in Zoutleeuw, Belgium, though its maker remains unknown. Its intricate carvings depict biblical scenes that reflect the religious fervor of its time. Made during an era of significant religious and social change, the altarpiece embodies the visual culture of the 16th century. Catholicism was the dominant cultural force, yet the stirrings of the Reformation challenged its authority. Altarpieces like this served as powerful tools, reinforcing religious narratives and moral codes through visual storytelling. The hierarchical arrangement of scenes, with Christ's crucifixion at the center, highlights the Church's teachings on salvation. The inclusion of local saints and symbols also served to connect the universal themes of Christianity with the specific identity of the community. Art historians analyze such works by studying religious texts, social histories, and the patronage networks. We research how the altarpiece functioned within the church space, shaping the religious experience of the parishioners and preserving the legacy of its patrons.