The Altarpiece of the Main Altar of the Church of San Andrés is currently attributed to the sculptor Pedro Duque Cornejo from Seville, the same who made the choir stalls of the Cathedral between the years 1747 and 1754. He is believed to have outlined the design of the altarpiece between 1750 and 1757, but Teodosio Sánchez Cañadas carried it out, who is also thought to have made the sculpture of “San Andrés” at the front of the ensemble.

It is a very original piece of work as it does not fully comply with the rules used by the masters of the time. The altarpiece is made in wood, which was gilded later, and it has two sections and only three vertical sections, where movement and the effect given by the author are its most outstanding and popular characteristics.

The ensemble starts with a base with corbels that support the Solomon columns of the first section. These columns are especially original for two reasons: the rhythm of the spirals of the four columns does not coincide at any point, which creates an even greater effect in the ensemble, and, on the other hand, they have its third intermediate part distinguished, thus breaking their normal rhythm. On the side sections, there are sculptures representing archangels “San Miguel” and “San Rafael” on pedestals. The central section, however, is divided in two heights: the first one dedicated to the Tabernacle, and in the second one, we can highlight a round alcove flanked by estipites with an image of “San Andrés“, after which the temple is named. The Apostle is depicted with his most characteristic attribute, a saltire, while he is holding the book.

The second section also has three vertical sections, adapting perfectly to the arrangement of the groin voussoirs covering the altar. In our opinion, the author arranged the spaces around the central figure of the Crucified at the front of the scene, which is flanked by two sculptures of big perspective representing two “Angels of Passion“. The ensemble is finished by a flouron.

On the other hand, on the walls of the Main Altar we can see “The Imposition of the Chasuble to San Ildefonso“, by Juan de Peñalosa y Sandoval from Córdoba, who is thought to have made the twelve compositions representing “The Apostles” which decorate the church.

If you are wondering what to do in Córdoba, we recommend you visit the Fernandine Churches hiring one of our guided tours. We will explain there a special chapter dedicated to the Main Altar of the Church of San Andrés. Choose to do high quality sightseeing with qualified staff. Do not hesitate, ArtenCórdoba is the best option.

Text: J.A.S.C.