A Bishop's Crozier, c. 1475-1480, Martin Schongauer, German, c. 1440/53-1491, 10 11/16 x 4 3/8 in. (27.15 x 11.11 cm) (image), Engraving, Germany, 15th century, Martin Schongauer was the son of a goldsmith and likely learned to engrave lines on metal before moving on to become a painter. Part showpiece, part inspirational design, this engraving of the head of a bishops crozier, an elaborate staff that recalls a shepherds crook, a symbol of pastoral care. (Christ is likened to a shepherd; His followers to a flock.) Mary sits enthroned with the infant Jesus on her lap, while angels serenade them with a lute and an organ. Tiny men gambol on the gothic tracery above. Below her is a blank shield, a placeholder for a potential clients coat of arms. Architectural niches ring the staff, each containing a saint. Margaret, left, stands on the dragon from which she escaped. Barbara, right, holds the sword that her father used to behead her and the chalice that symbolizes her Christian faith. T