Saint Andrew’s Church: Main Altar.

The Altarpiece of the Main Altar of the Church of San Andrés is currently attributed to the Sevillian sculptor Pedro Duque Cornejo, the same artist who created the Choir Stalls of the Cathedral between the years 1747 and 1754. It is believed that he may have designed the altarpiece between 1750 and 1757, but it was executed by Teodosio Sánchez Cañadas, a sculptor who is also thought to have carved the figure of “Saint Andrew” that presides over the ensemble.

General description of the ensemble

This is a highly original work, as it hardly conforms to the canons used by altarpiece masters of the time. Made of wood and later gilded, the altarpiece is structured in just two tiers and only three vertical sections, where the movement and dramatic effect imparted by the artist are its most notable and celebrated features.

First tier of the altarpiece

The ensemble begins with a predella, from which spring the brackets that support the Solomonic columns of the first tier. These columns are highly original for two reasons: the spirals of the four columns do not match at any point, which creates an even greater dramatic effect, and the middle third of each shaft is differentiated, breaking the usual rhythm of the design.

In the side sections, two sculptures stand on pedestals representing the archangels “Saint Michael” and “Saint Raphael“. The central section, by contrast, is divided into two levels: the first is dedicated to the Tabernacle, and the second features a semicircular niche flanked by estipite columns, containing an image of “Saint Andrew“, the church’s patron saint. The Apostle is shown with his most characteristic attribute, the X-shaped cross, while holding a book.

Second tier and top section

The second tier also presents three sections, perfectly adapted to the layout of the groin vaults covering the altar. In our view, the artist has arranged the space around the central figure of the Crucified Christ, who dominates the scene, and is flanked by two dramatically posed sculptures representing two “Angels of the Passion“. The ensemble is crowned with a decorative finial.

Other works at the Main Altar

On the other hand, hanging on the walls of the Main Altar is the painting “The Imposition of the Chasuble on Saint Ildefonso“, a work by the Cordoban artist Juan de Peñalosa y Sandoval, who is believed to have painted the twelve compositions representing the “Apostles” that decorate the entire area.

Cultural visit

If you’re wondering what to do in Córdoba, we recommend visiting the Fernandine Churches by booking one of our guided tours. There we will dedicate a special section to the Main Altar of the Church of San Andrés. Choose to enjoy high-quality tourism with qualified staff—don’t hesitate, ArtenCórdoba is your best option.

Text: J.A.S.C.